Homelessness

This content applies to Scotland only.

Housing laws vary between Scotland and England. This page applies to Scotland only. Get advice relating to England

You don't have to be living on the street to be homeless. You may be sleeping on a friend's sofa, staying in a hostel, or living in overcrowded or unsuitable accommodation.

This section explains what homelessness is and how it can be avoided, how you can get help from the council and where to get help if you're sleeping rough.

If you have nowhere to sleep tonight, you can call Shelter's free housing advice helpline on 0808 800 4444 for free, confidential help and advice. Find out more about what to do in an emergency here.

In an emergency

Homeless? Nowhere to sleep tonight? This section explains how you can get help to find somewhere to stay, and what emergency accommodation options are open to you. Read more 

Help and advice

Housing problems can be complicated, and you may need to speak to an adviser in person in order to work out the best solution for you. Getting help and advice can change your situation drastically and can often prevent you becoming homeless. This section explains what an adviser can do for you and suggests agencies to contact. Read more 

What is homelessness?

Homelessness means not having a home. You don't have to be living on the street to be homeless - even if you have a roof over your head you can still be without a home. This may be because you don't have any rights to stay where you live or your home is unsuitable for you. Read more 

Homeless people's rights

Just because you're homeless, it doesn't mean you don't have any rights. You may have rights to get help from the council's housing and social work departments. In addition, you will not lose your rights to claim benefits, access medical help, or vote, if you become homeless. Help from the housing department Read more 

Help from the council

If you don't have a home of your own, you cannot stay where you are, or you're worried that you will have to move out soon, the council may be able to help you stay in your home or find you somewhere else to live. To get this help, you need to go the council's housing department and ask to make a homeless application. Read more 

Sleeping on the streets

This section is for people who are sleeping on the streets. It contains information about the services available, including day centres, outreach work and nightshelters. It also contains practical advice about safety on the streets, medical care and claiming benefits. Read more 

Does the council have to house you?

If you don't have anywhere to live, your local council may have a duty to house you. Use our online assessment tool to find out if you're entitled to help. Read more