Tel: 023 9282 2251
How we can help to rehouse you
Last updated: 24 April 2009 11:09 UKHousing priority groups
You may be entitled for council housing or council sheltered housing if you:
- have one or more dependant children living with you (a dependant child is normally under 16 years old or under 19 if in full-time education)
- are, or someone living with you is, an expectant parent
- have lost your home due to an emergency such as a serious fire, flood or other disaster
- are 16 or 17
- are 18 – 20 and a former ‘relevant child’ under the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000
- are vulnerable for special reasons
- are elderly or in poor health, are in danger of a violent attack, or are vulnerable as a result of being in custody or having served in the Armed Forces
If you're homeless, or likely to be homeless, but are not in one of the priority groups you will not be offered housing. Instead, we'll give you advice and assistance to help you find somewhere else to rent or buy, or to help you stay with relatives and friends.
Intentional and unintentional homelessness
If you claim to be homeless, we have to ask about your application and the reasons why you became homeless. We may contact your previous landlord, employers, social workers, solicitors or other people who may be able to give us information about your homelessness.
If you've become homeless through deliberate action or inaction, you may be regarded as intentionally homeless. Even if you're in a priority category we will not have a duty to find housing for you, although we may find some accommodation for you for a temporary period. The maximum is usually 28 days.
You will not be regarded as intentionally homeless if you have done your best to keep your existing home or have lost your home through no fault of your own.
Please ask us for advice and seek legal advice before giving up your home - speak to a solicitor, the Citizen’s Advice Bureau or the Housing Advice Centre.
Further information
To find out more, contact housing options on 023 9283 4989 or email housing.options@portsmouthcc.gov.uk. You can write to:
Housing options, Civic Offices,
Guildhall Square, Portsmouth PO1 2AX
