Homelessness Advice & Prevention
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Bridgend Council and the housing and homelessness charities in Wales work for the prevention of homelessness, the improvement of housing conditions and the right of everyone to a safe, suitable and affordable home.
Worried about homelessness?
If you are homeless or think you might become homeless in the near future then the council may have a duty to try and prevent your homelessness and help people who are homeless. You can make an appointment to see a Housing Advice Officer by telephoning 01656 643512 or 01656 643546. Alternatively, you can visit our offices at Bridgend County Borough Council, Civic Offices, Angel Street, Bridgend, CF31 4WB. Our office and phone lines are open from 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Thursday and 8.30am to 4.30pm Friday.
Homelessness prevention options
The sooner you make us aware of your homelessness problems, the more likely we are able to assist in identifying the problems and preventing your loss of accommodation. If your loss of accommodation is inevitable and cannot be prevented, we will look to find alternative accommodation before homelessness occurs. This accommodation could be a:
Housing Association property | |
Assured Shorthold Tenancy in the private sector (a bond scheme is available for assistance with The Wallich). |
What does the Law say about homelessness?
The Housing Act 1996 part VII sets out the legal duties that the council has to people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. The council does not have to provide housing to all homeless people but has to if someone is:
Homeless or threatened with homelessness within the next 28 days; and they | |
Are eligible for assistance; and | |
Are in priority need; and | |
Are not intentionally homeless; and | |
Have a local connection with Bridgend |
Further information can be found in the Homelessness Information Booklet. This booklet will help to answer your questions and explain your rights. It will give you information, advice and assistance about your housing situation and will ensure you know where to go and who to contact for help.
The Myths & Legends of homelessness
Following on from work undertaken with Ogmore, Porthcawl, Cynffig and Ynysawdre Comprehensive Schools, a booklet has been developed that aims to dispel some of the Myths and Legends that exist regarding Homelessness and Housing.
The Myths & Legends booklet counters the responses to the questions asked, with reality, and includes Bridgend based information to give a clear and realistic view of homelessness and housing options throughout the County Borough.
Harassment & illegal eviction
If you are a landlord, the Harassment & Illegal Eviction Leaflet can help you avoid some common legal pitfalls by providing advice and support on illegal eviction and harassment. If you are a tenant, the Shelter Cymru Harassment & Illegal Eviction Guide for Tenants will provide advice on how the law protects people living in a residential property against harassment and illegal eviction.
Who can help?
The Council's Housing Options, Homelessness & Innovation Team
Homelessness advice and options
Possibility of emergency temporary accommodation
Shelter Cymru
Housing advice and assistance
Llamau
Specialist supported accommodation for 16 to 24 year olds
Family mediation
The Wallich
Rough sleepers’ intervention team
Solutions centre
Bond board
Housing support team
- Last Updated: 15/11/2010
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