Homelessness

Local authorities in England have a legal duty to ensure that everyone who is homeless or at risk of homelessness has access to the same level of assistance. This means that they are legally obliged to provide assistance.

This applies to all people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness, irrespective of their priority need status. 

Prevention duty

If we are satisfied that you are threatened with homelessness and are eligible for assistance, we must take ‘reasonable steps’ to help you avoid becoming homeless. Once triggered, the prevention duty will continue for 56 days.

Together, we will support you to help yourself as much as possible, to solve your accommodation issues.

Relief duty

If we are satisfied that you are homeless and are eligible for assistance, we must take ‘reasonable steps’ to help you secure accommodation. This could be through supported accommodation or a private let.

Once triggered, the relief duty will continue for 56 days. We will provide an assessment of your needs and a Personal Housing Plan to help find you somewhere to live.

Duty to refer

Specified public bodies such as prisons, probation services, Job Centres and NHS Trusts, have a duty to help you if you are at risk of becoming homeless. They can refer you to an agreed housing authority in England.

This duty aims to ensure that your housing situation is considered whenever you come into contact with any wider public service. It also encourages local authorities to build on or develop relationships, protocols or joint working arrangements with partners.

Referrals under the duty to refer

If you are a professional and wish to refer someone under the 'duty to refer' to Swindon Borough Council, you can e-mail: dutytorefer@swindon.gov.uk.