Usually you have to be considered ‘legally homeless’ before you get help. But what does that mean? If you are worried about your living situation, here’s how to tell if the council has to house you and suggestions about what to do next.

The council has to look into your circumstances to decide if you are in priority need for emergency accommodation. If you think you are in priority need but the council says you are not, you may be able to get the decision changed. Check here what qualifies as "priority need". (Content applies to England only.)

Information about when the council must help you with emergency housing if you're homeless and don't have anywhere to stay.(Content applies to England only.)