Supporting someone who may lose their home can be very stressful. As a Carer, you may be worried about their safety, your own situation, and what happens next.
The good news is that help is available, and acting early can make a big difference.
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Get advice as early as possible
Get advice as early as possible
If the person you care for has received a notice from their landlord or is worried about eviction, it is important to seek advice straight away.
Early advice can sometimes:
- Prevent eviction
- Delay the process
- Help find alternative housing
Housing advisers can also help understand notices, deal with landlords, and support with court processes.
Understand their rights as a tenant
People renting their home have legal rights. A landlord usually cannot evict someone immediately without following the correct legal process.
Getting advice can help you:
- Check if the eviction notice is valid
- Understand how much time you have
- Challenge unfair eviction or harassment
Some people may also qualify for free legal advice (legal aid), especially if they are on a low income or receiving benefits.
Understand their rights as a tenant
Speak to the local council
Speak to the local council
If someone is at risk of losing their home, their local council has a duty to help.
The council can:
- Help prevent homelessness
- Offer advice and mediation
- Provide emergency or temporary accommodation
- Support with finding longer-term housing
Encourage the person you care for to contact the council as soon as possible, not just when they are about to be evicted.
Check finances and benefits
Financial difficulties, such as rent arrears, are a common reason for eviction.
It can help to:
- Check all benefits are being claimed
- Look at budgeting and debt advice
- Apply for extra support such as Discretionary Housing Payments
In some cases, schemes may give breathing space to deal with debt and avoid eviction.
Contact The Carers Support Service to book a free benefits check:
Northern Lincolnshire: 01652 650585
North East Lincolnshire: 01472 242277
Check finances and benefits
Plan what happens if they have to move
Plan what happens if they have to move
If it is not possible to stay in the current home, planning ahead can reduce stress.
You can:
- Explore social housing or housing association options
- Look at private renting options
- Ask about support for moving and deposits
The council or housing charities can help identify suitable housing options and support needs.
Consider your role as a Carer
If you are living with or supporting someone, their housing situation may also affect you.
For example:
- You may be able to move with them
- You may need to inform your own landlord if you are away caring
- Your rights can depend on whether you are named on the tenancy
If you are unsure, seek advice about your own housing rights as a carer.
Consider your role as a Carer
Get urgent help if needed
Get urgent help if needed
If the situation becomes urgent (for example, they have nowhere safe to stay), support is available.
- Shelter emergency helpline: 0808 800 4444
- Local council emergency housing team
- Emergency accommodation services
If someone is in immediate danger, contact emergency services.
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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