It’s no shock to anyone that family domestics, whether physical or mental, happen all the time. If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of getting kicked out, then here’s what to do:
Is there anywhere you can go temporarily?
Firstly… Is there a relative you can stay with? A Nan, an Aunty, an Uncle, a friend – even a close family friend. They may be able to help you deal with your situation, as well as maybe help to resolve things with your family.
Homeless Shelters
If this isn’t an option for you, then you need to arrange to spend a night in an emergency housing shelter. However, these are often full.
Organisations that deal with homelessness are:
Nacro - 01245 351336
Shelter - 03003 301234
CHESS - 01245 281104
Sanctuary - 01245 494055
It is important when talking to homeless charities to tell them the full extent of your situation, and it will help you become a priority if you state that you have nowhere to go, no family to stay with.
A lot of homeless charities have house shares for homeless people, and the personal charge for staying there is often as low as £10 a week.
Local Council
Similarly, if you are eighteen, you can call your local council and report your homelessness to them. If you have a low or no source of income, they will have a duty of housing towards you, especially if you have a mental or physical health problem (recorded by your GP.)
The Council are sneaky. They will try and avoid giving you housing, especially if you cannot provide evidence of your homelessness. It is widely known that they do not want to give anyone housing, and this is often why they are rude and abrupt on the phone. However, don’t take this personally, as this is often in order to catch you out.
They will also contact a member of your family, where they will discuss your homelessness.
Often, when there has been a dispute between family members, your parent may say that you are not homeless, and the issue can be resolved to the council. It is important that you do not let this happen, as the council will no longer take your application any further. Often this can be avoided by discussing with your parents that they need to state your homelessness in order for you to be accepted for housing.
The council will ask you if you have anywhere to stay. Say no. Even if you have a friend to stay with at the time, do not tell them that – as they will not view you as homeless. Rather, make them see your homelessness as urgent, and this will give them a duty to house you, as well as giving you the possibility of a council flat in the near future.
Universal Credit
If you find yourself in desperation after being kicked out and have no or a low source of income, apply online for universal credit. You can receive this from the age of sixteen, and this will make you eligible for bursary schemes at school, and also for housing benefit (where the government pay for your housing.) This money can be up to £340 a month, which will help you get back on your feet and take care of yourself. Housing benefit will cover the costs of your rent, water and electricity bills and will be sent directly to your landlord or housing provider.
Renting
If you don’t want to apply for homelessness and have a full-time job, renting may be affordable for you. You can rent a double bedroom’s for as low as £400 a month.
Need someone to talk to?
Some helpful helplines that you can talk to regarding your situation:
National Abuse Helpline: 0808 109 8539
Childline: 0800 1111
Samaritans: 0330 094 5717
Citizens Advice: 0800 144 8848
I am always open for people to contact me as I have been in the same situation before. Contact me on the "contact" page leaving a message and I will get back to you ASAP. Remember although it may feel like it, you are not alone!
GO BACK IF YOU CAN...
However, leaving home is tough. Depending on your circumstances, if you have the opportunity to go back home and you feel safe to do so, do it! Although you may not get along with your parents, living at home is a luxury, and will give you the opportunity to save money and grow your independence slowly, rather than chucking yourself into the deep end with no experience or knowledge. Often its best to stay at home until you can go to university, or rent while working full time - so if you have the opportunity to do this, then do it.
If you feel like you're in immediate danger, however, call the police. Police records of abuse incidents, even if not proven, will help your case with the council to prove that you feel unsafe at home.
Looking for more advice?
Check out our other blog posts: https://www.whattheydontteachyouatschool.net/
Follow our Instagram for advice and daily motivation: @whattheydontteachyouatschool
Just want someone to talk to?
Get in touch with us anonymously today: contact us
Comments