Below are some emergency accommodation solutions for young people.
Under 18?
If the young person you are working with is under 18 years old you should contact the local council either via their housing department during the day or the emergency out hours social worker during the evening. You should be able to find out the contact details by visiting the website of the local authority.
Nightstop
Nightstop is a scheme run by Depaul UK which provides emergency accommodation in the homes of local volunteers for young people aged 16-25 from one night a week to several days or weeks at a time. Young people are referred from recognised agencies who are working with them to find a longer term solution to their housing need.
You have the best chance of getting a space for the night if you get the referral in as soon as possible on the day. You could ring to check availability in advance.
Winter Shelters
During the winter months there are a number shelters which maybe able to take a young person in an emergency the 2015/16 list is attached below. These venues aren’t always ideal and sometimes there are waiting lists. We would advise young people to explore other options before.
Emergency Weather
Shelter from the Storm
Shelter from the Storm is an emergency night shelter, completely free to guests, providing bed, dinner and breakfast for 44 homeless people every night of the year. Due to high demand the shelter is often full but is worth contacting them to see if they have a vacancy.
Rough Sleeping
Unfortunately, in London, due to extensive demand on housing some people can find themselves without a place to stay for the night. ‘Sleeping rough’ is a phrase used to describe people who sleep in public spaces or other areas which are not intended living spaces.
Rough sleeping can be dangerous especially if you identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans (LGBT) due to the increased risk of hate crime. If you find yourself rough sleeping you should try to seek help as soon as possible.
Below is a guide on rough sleeping which includes some tips for people who find themselves on the street.