Help moving off the streets

Getting into a hostel

Some hostels are direct access. This means that you turn up at the door to see if they have any vacancies. Other hostels ask for a referral from an agency, such as the Housing Executive , social services, a day centre or an outreach team.

Charges

You will be charged for your stay in a hostel. Housing benefit may cover most of the cost, but you will probably be asked to pay towards your meals. The staff should help you apply for housing benefit. Supporting People will pay for any support services you need.

Length of stay

The length of your stay will vary from hostel to hostel. Some hostels may let you stay for six months or longer. Some may have a limit on the number of nights you can stay there.

Help with specific needs

While staying at the hostel, staff may assess your particular situation to see if you have any specific needs. You may need medical care, counselling or help with claiming benefits.

The hostel will usually provide support services if you have any support needs. You won't have to pay for these support services while:

you are staying in the hostel,

you are getting any housing benefit.

Move on accommodation

Move on accommodation is for homeless people who are finding somewhere permanent to live. A worker will help you to draw up a plan to sort out your:

health,

benefits,

work,

training,

housing.

Move on accommodation can be a self-contained flat away from the hostel. A support worker should visit regularly to see if you are having any problems managing the responsibility of your own home. When you are ready to live independently, the staff will help you contact the Housing Executive or a housing association to help find accommodation.

The Housing Executive has a legal duty to give housing advice and assistance to anyone who asks in Northern Ireland.

If the Housing Executive can't help, the support worker may be able to help you move into private rented accommodation. Some agencies can help you with the deposit or rent in advance .