leavinghome.info | The on-line guide to leaving home and housing for young people in Scotland

Emergency Advice image
Unless you are in danger it is advisable to stay where you are until you can plan your move more confidently.

However, if it is an emergency and you have nowhere to stay, try the following:

1.	Ask friends or family. They might give you a bed while you sort yourself out.

2.	Call the emergency homeless number for your council. You can find this in the national directory or in a local phone book. If you contact the Council they will arrange a homeless interview with you and get you somewhere to stay until this happens.

Call Shelterline on 0808 800 4444
They should be able to provide you with advice and if needed give you details of a local hostel. The police should also be able to help you with this information.

Call Women's Aid on 0845 7023 468 or, Refuge on 08705 9954 4324 if you are escaping domestic violence.

4.	If you were in care, contact your local Social Work Department. You can find the number in the national directory or in a local phone book.

Sleeping rough should only ever be the very last resort, however, if you have to sleep rough:

Find a warm, dry, sheltered, quiet spot.

Put lots of layers of clothes on.

Eat before you settle down for the night and don't get drunk as this lowers your body temperature.

Surround yourself with paper and cardboard, on top of plastic to keep heat in.

Next day go to the Council Housing Department and declare yourself homeless.

If the Council decides that you are homeless they will give you temporary accommodation, like a B&B, a hostel or a refuge.

Depending on your situation you may then get a permanent place or they may just offer advice and help with finding a place. They will explain all this and you should ask for a copy of their decision in writing. If you feel that the decision is unfair, you can appeal.

For more detailed advice see section 23 of Streets Ahead: ‘I’ve nowhere to sleep tonight, who can help me?

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