The council should write to you when they make a decision about your homeless application.

You might have to wait a few weeks.

The council decides if you should get longer term housing. They do not have to give you longer term housing if you do not have a priority need.

You can ask for a review if the council gives you a letter that says:

• you do not have a priority need

• they cannot help you for another reason

You have 3 weeks to ask for a review.

Ask to stay in emergency housing during the review.

What to do if the council does not give you a letter

If you think you have a priority need but the council does not write to you about it:

• contact them again

• ask for somewhere to stay

You could use our letter template.

You can take the council to court if they refuse to look into your situation or give you a letter. This legal process is called a judicial review. You need a solicitor to help.

Get free legal help

You could get free legal help if you're on benefits or a low income.

Complain about the council

You can complain about not getting help using the council's complaints process.

This can take time because your complaint has to be looked into by the council.

You can complain if you've been treated badly, even if the council's decision about your priority need is legal.