WHAT IS HOMELESSNESS?
Homelessness is more than not having a roof over your head, it’s about not having a secure, safe, or affordable place to stay.
You may be considered homeless if you:
- are staying with family or friends
- are squatting (as you don’t have the legal right to stay)
- are staying in a hostel, night shelter or B&B
- are at risk of violence or abuse in your home
- live in poor conditions that are affecting your health
- live apart from your family as you don’t have a place to live together
Homelessness and the life circumstances that surround it can be very stressful, and this can have a huge impact on mental wellbeing. If you or someone you know is struggling with homelessness, or you think you might be at risk of becoming homeless, it's important to get help. You can find tailored support for what you're going through here.
If you're struggling to move forward or are feeling suicidal because of homelessness you can speak to CALM in confidence.
CALM’s professional helpline staff are available from 5pm to midnight every day. They can help you explore how you’re feeling and will talk things through without judgement. They'll give practical advice and suggestions to help you find a way to get help and feel better. Find out more about CALM's helpline here.
You can also find more support from Shelter. They offer advice and support online, over the phone or through their local services.