Homes you can afford
See what rent your benefits will cover.
We check the housing allowance for your area. Then we show homes to rent at or under that price.
Do these first
Four steps in your first week.
Do them in order. Each one takes a phone call or a short form.
Tell the council you need a home
Ask for the housing options team. Say you have just left prison. They must look at your case.
Claim Universal Credit straight away
The housing part helps pay your rent. It can take five weeks, so start on day one.
Ask about a deposit scheme
Many councils and charities pay your deposit or first month's rent for you.
Ask your probation officer
They know local schemes and approved places. Ask about CAS3 housing support.
Nowhere to sleep tonight?
Call Shelter free on 0808 800 4444. They are open every day. Tell your council you are homeless the same day.
Words you will hear
Plain English, no jargon.
Housing allowance (LHA)
The most rent Universal Credit will pay for your area and household size.
Deposit
Money you pay up front. You get it back if you leave the place in good order.
Guarantor
Someone who promises to pay if you cannot. Some landlords ask for one.
HMO or shared house
You rent one room and share the kitchen and bathroom. Usually the cheapest option.
Your rights
A record does not block you from renting.
You only share what is asked
Most private landlords do not run a criminal record check.
Councils must help some people
If you are homeless and at risk, the council has a legal duty to act.
Be honest if they ask
If a landlord asks straight out, tell the truth. Keep it short and look forward.
Where to get help
Free places that help with housing.
Shelter
0808 800 4444 · Free
Free housing advice. Phone them if you are homeless or about to be.
Check your housing allowance
Official government tool
Type your postcode. See the most rent your benefits will cover.
Apply for council housing
GOV.UK
Find your council and join their housing list. It is free to apply.
SpareRoom
Free to search
Rooms in shared houses. Often the cheapest way to get a roof over your head.
Nacro housing
0300 123 1889
Supported housing for people leaving prison. They understand your situation.
Turn2us grants
Free grant search
Search for grants that help with rent, deposits and furniture.
One roof, one step at a time.
Start with a room. Build from there. A shared house today can become your own flat later.