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Getting Housing Help From Crisis and Other Homelessness Charities

Charities can advise and support, but councils have the legal duty.

Getting Housing Help From Crisis and Other Homelessness Charities Affordable Housing & Social Housing

Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond

Housing · Homelessness

Help from homelessness charities

Crisissupport
Shelteradvice
Council56-day duty
Privaterenting
In short: Crisis is a national homelessness charity. It doesn't provide council housing, but through its Skylight centres it offers support with housing, employment and wellbeing to people who are homeless or at risk. Shelter offers free housing advice by phone and online. If you are homeless or threatened with homelessness within 56 days, your local council has a legal duty to help, so contact its housing team straight away. Fraser Bond doesn't provide emergency housing, but we welcome private rental applications from tenants receiving benefits.
Crisis

Skylight centres and support to find and keep a home.

Shelter

Free expert housing advice and a helpline.

Your council

Must assess you and help prevent or relieve homelessness.

Private renting

Universal Credit can help with rent; deposit schemes may help.

Frequently asked questions

Does Crisis give people houses?

No, but it helps people find and keep housing.

Who must help if I'm homeless?

Your local council.

Looking for a private rental?

Talk to our team or get a free valuation.

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