Help If You're Homeless
Find shelter, food, and immediate support tonight
Call These Numbers for Help Tonight
Shelter Emergency Helpline
Emergency housing advice and support
Monday-Friday 8am-8pm, Weekends 9am-5pm
What You Can Get Right Now
Shelter Tonight
Hot Food & Drink
Essential Items
Medical Help
You Still Have Rights
Being homeless doesn't take away your rights. You are entitled to:
Tonight's Accommodation
If you need somewhere to stay tonight, call Shelter's emergency helpline immediately (0808 800 4444). They can help you find emergency accommodation. You may also be eligible for housing support from your local council.
Food and Basic Needs
Food banks and community centres can provide free meals and essential items. You don't need a referral for most food banks. Churches and community centres often offer free meals, especially in the evening.
Your Rights to Housing
Even as an asylum seeker, you may have rights to housing. Contact your local council's housing department immediately and explain you're homeless. They must assess your situation and may provide emergency accommodation.
Health and Safety
Your health matters. NHS services are free for asylum seekers. Register with a GP as soon as possible. If you're ill, you can visit A&E or call 111 for non-emergency medical advice.
Staying Safe
If you're sleeping rough, try to stay in well-lit areas and near other people if possible. Keep your belongings with you. Tell someone where you are. If you feel unsafe, you can call the police (101 for non-emergency, 999 for emergency).
Quick Survival Guide
Tonight
- Call Shelter emergency helpline: 0808 800 4444
- Go to your local council housing department
- Look for night shelters (many churches offer these)
- If unsafe, call police on 101 (999 if emergency)
Food & Basics
- Find your nearest food bank (no referral needed at most)
- Churches often provide free meals
- Community centres may have shower facilities
- Homeless charities provide clothing and toiletries
Health
- NHS is free for asylum seekers - you CAN use it
- Register with a GP (use a friend's address if needed)
- A&E is always open for emergencies
- Call 111 for medical advice (24/7)
Stay Safe
- Stay in public, lit areas if sleeping rough
- Keep your valuables with you always
- Tell someone where you are
- Trust your instincts - if something feels wrong, leave
Your Local Council Must Help
Even as an asylum seeker, your local council has a duty to assess your housing situation. Go to the housing department and tell them you're homeless. They must listen and help.
What to say: "I'm homeless and need emergency accommodation. I'm an asylum seeker. Please assess my situation under homelessness legislation."
Feeling Overwhelmed?
Call Samaritans - they'll listen without judgment, 24/7
Call Samaritans: 116 123