Homelessness - if you are a member of the armed forces
This page is for you if you’re part of the armed forces community and are homeless or worried about losing your home. This includes people covered by the Armed Forces Covenant.
If you’ve served in the armed forces
There are special rules that councils must follow when helping people who used to serve in the armed forces. These rules are written in a guide called the Homelessness Code of Guidance for Local Authorities.
When we look at your housing application, we’ll think about the usual things—like your current situation and how urgent your need is. But we’ll also look at whether your time in the armed forces makes you more vulnerable.
You might also be able to get extra help or money from charities like:
These charities can help you stay in your home or find somewhere new to live.
Housing register
Our housing allocation policy gives extra support to members of the armed forces community. For example:
- You might be treated as having a local connection, even if you normally wouldn’t
- You could get extra priority on the housing register
Our homelessness and rough sleeping strategy
Read our homelessness and rough sleeping strategy 2024 - 2029 (PDF).
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.