How we can help

This content applies to England only.

Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. Get advice relating to Scotland

Shelter has more than 200 specialist housing advisers. We can give you advice, information and help with legal and practical issues. All of our services are free, professional and independent. Don't wait until things get to crisis point. It's never too late to get advice, but the earlier you do so, the better your chances are.

Can you house me?

No. Shelter does not provide accommodation. But our advisers may be able to help you find somewhere. We can check whether the council has a duty to house you, and ensure that you get what you are entitled to. We may also be able to help you access emergency housing like hostels or refuges.

What problems can Shelter help with?

Shelter has more than 30 years' experience in dealing with housing problems. We may be able to:

help with practical problems
explain complicated legal issues
help you negotiate with your landlord, lender or the council
help you to request and prepare for homelessness reviews, tribunals or court hearings
put you in touch with other organisations that can help you.

We also recognise how one problem can lead to another, so many of our local advice centres can help with:

disability and/or care needs
debt problems
welfare benefits.

Shelter advice centres

Shelter's advice centres provide specialist help on housing related issues. Many of them also provide advice on debt, community care and benefit issues.