Family and friends carers often experience difficulties with their housing when they step in to care for a child who is not their own.

You may find that your housing becomes overcrowded or is unsuitable in some other way.  You may also face difficulties with paying your rent or mortgage due to the extra expenses and/or loss of income that you may be experiencing.

If you are struggling to pay your rent or mortgage you can get free advice and help.  Please see our Debt page for further information.

If you are on a low income you may be able to claim Housing Benefit to help you pay your rent.  If you receive certain benefits you could be entitled to some help towards your mortgage costs.  See our Benefits page for further information about Housing Benefit and other benefits you might be entitled to claim.

If you would like to get some advice on your housing situation, you may want to contact one of the organisations below.  Alternatively, please contact our advisers for further information.

Shelter

Telephone: 0808 800 4444 Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Weekends 8am-5pm
Website: http://england.shelter.org.uk/get_advice

Provides a free national advice line, staffed by trained housing advisers.

Advice Guide

Website: www.adviceguide.org.uk

Online help from Citizens Advice