This page is for you if you’ve been in care and are now homeless or worried about losing your home.
Homelessness – if you are a care leaver
If you are a care leaver
What the rules say
There are special rules that councils must follow when helping care leavers. These rules are written in a guide called the Code of Guidance.
If you were looked after by the council when you were 16 or 17, and you’re now aged 18 to 20 and homeless, you are classed as being in priority need. This means you may be able to get temporary housing while we look at your case. We’ll also check if we have a duty to help you find longer-term housing. This depends on your situation and how vulnerable you are.
Help with rent
If you’re under 35 and renting from a private landlord, you usually only get help with rent for a shared room. But if you’ve been in care, this rule doesn’t apply until you turn 22. You may be able to get help with the cost of a one-bedroom flat.
Support from your personal adviser
If you’re a care leaver, you should still get help from your personal adviser until you’re 21 – or until you’re 25 if you’re still in education or training.
Our homelessness and rough sleeping strategy
Contact us
If you’re homeless or worried about becoming homeless, get in touch with the Housing Needs Advice and Support team.
- Visit the team at: Civic Offices, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, PO1 2AX
- Call: 023 9283 4989
- Email: Housing.Options@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
- Opening times: Monday to Thursday: 9am–5pm, Friday: 9am–4pm
No appointment needed for your first visit.
If you need urgent help outside these hours, call our emergency line: 023 9282 4244.