HOUSING MYTHS
Housing can feel confusing, and many people hear information that is not always correct.
These misunderstandings can make it harder to get the right help at the right time.
Because of this, it is important to understand what is true and what is not.
Below are some common myths, along with clear explanations to help you feel more informed.
Under the Homeless Reduction Act 2017, the council is legally obligated to assist you if you are at risk of becoming homeless within the next 56 days or if you are currently without a home. The type and extent of help offered will depend on your specific situation, but they will always provide advice and assistance wherever possible.
“If I have children, I’ll automatically get a council house”
Having children does not mean you will automatically be given a council home.
However, families with children are often seen as having a “priority need” if they become homeless.
This means the council must take steps to help you, especially if you have nowhere safe to stay.
In many cases, this support may include:
- Help to stay in your current home
- Emergency or temporary accommodation
- Support to find longer-term housing
However, it does not guarantee a permanent council property straight away.
Most people will spend time in temporary housing or private rented accommodation first
Not everyone who is homeless will be given immediate housing.
Your local council must assess your situation and decide what duty they owe you.
This depends on several factors, including:
- Whether you are eligible for support
- Whether you are in priority need
- The reason you became homeless
If you are eligible, the council must help to prevent or relieve your homelessness.
However, this does not always mean they must provide long-term housing immediately.
You may be offered:
- Advice and support
- Help to find private rented housing
- Temporary accommodation while your situation is assessed
“If I’m homeless, I’ll be given housing straight away”
“I cannot move because I care for someone”
Being a carer does not mean you cannot move to a different home.
However, it is important to plan carefully before making any changes.
You may need to consider:
- How care will continue in a new location
- Access to local services and support
- Housing suitability for both you and the person you support
There may also be schemes that support moves for carers in certain situations.
Landlords are not always required to make changes just because you are a carer.
However, they may need to consider reasonable requests, especially where disability is involved.
For example, adjustments may be needed if the person you care for has specific needs.
You may also be able to apply for support, such as a Disabled Facilities Grant.
“My landlord has to make changes because I am a carer”
“The council has to house me no matter what”
Councils do have legal duties, but these depend on your circumstances.
They must provide advice and support to anyone at risk of homelessness.
However, the level of help depends on legal tests, including:
- Eligibility (for example, immigration status)
- Priority need
- Whether you became homeless intentionally
If you meet certain criteria, the council may have a duty to provide accommodation.
However, if not, they still must offer advice and help to find somewhere to live.
This is a common myth and can stop people from seeking help early.
Even if you are single, the council still has a duty to provide advice and support.
They must help prevent or relieve homelessness if you are eligible.
Some single people may also be considered in priority need, for example if they are:
- Vulnerable due to health or disability
- At risk of violence or abuse
- Young (16–17) or care leavers
“I’m not eligible for help if I’m single or don’t have children”
“You are only homeless if you are sleeping on the street”
Homelessness is not just rough sleeping.
You may still be considered homeless if:
- You are staying with friends or family temporarily
- Your home is unsafe or unsuitable
- You are at risk of eviction
Many people experience “hidden homelessness,” which is less visible but still serious
Being a carer does not mean you will automatically be given priority for housing.
However, your caring role can be taken into account when your situation is assessed.
For example, councils may consider:
- The impact of your caring responsibilities
- Whether your current housing affects the care you provide
- Any health or wellbeing concerns linked to your role
In some cases, this may increase your priority, but it is not guaranteed.
“As a carer, I will be prioritised for housing automatically”
“If I live with the person I care for, I have no housing rights”
Living with the person you care for does not remove your housing rights.
Your rights depend on your tenancy agreement or legal status in the home.
For example, you may be:
- A joint tenant
- A family member with rights to remain
- Someone with limited rights, depending on the situation
It is important to understand your position, especially if circumstances change.
Understanding the facts can help you take action sooner and access the right support. It can also help you support someone else who may be struggling with housing issues.
If you are unsure about your situation, it is always best to seek advice early. Getting help sooner can prevent problems from becoming more serious.
Carers’ Support Service is here to make sure unpaid carers are seen, supported and never left to struggle alone.
The Carers’ Support Centre
Registered Charity Number: 1070028
Company Limited by Guarantee.
Registration number: 3540988
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