|
Frequently Asked Questions – Hostel Accommodation
Why has my housing benefit not been paid yet?
If the Housing Benefit Department has received all your papers then they will assess your application as quickly as they can. You may contact the Housing Benefit department at Olive Morris House 0207 926 1000 or ask your Hostel Officer to chase them for you.
How many points have I got?
If the Council decides to accept a full duty towards you once it has concluded your homeless application your details will be added to the E list. You do not get points as such but are placed on Level 1 for the first year of their occupancy in temporary accommodation within a leased property. This recognises the fact that such accommodation, although temporary, is of a better standard than other temporary
accommodation. However, where the lease of such a property is within three months of expiry, or within six months of expiry if the applicant household's allowed property size is four bedrooms or more and there are no plans to renew the lease, the applicant will be placed on Level 3. If at any time prior to vacant possession of this temporary accommodation being returned, a new lease is in fact granted, the applicant will revert to Level 2.
See more information on the Councils Allocation scheme.
What if my personal circumstances change?
Your first port of call should be your hostel officer.
How long will I be in hostel accommodation?
You will normally remain in hostel temporary accommodation until your application has been assessed and authorised you for permanent rehousing. We do endeavour to transfer households from hostel accommodation to a self-contained accommodation as soon as is possible .
When will I be rehoused permanently flat?
Once you have been authorised for permanent accommodation you will need to bid for properties the Council advertises on a weekly basis under its' Choice Based Lettings scheme. Given that the demand for housing is far greater that our supply you can normally expect to wait for at least 2 years. However if you actively take part in the bidding process you may increase you chances of getting re-housed more quickly.
Can I have self-contained accommodation?
You will be placed in hostel accommodation initially until more suitable self-contained accommodation is found.
Can I have visitors?
Yes, you may have visitors between certain hours. This will be explained by your hostel officer. However, you are responsible for your visitors' behaviour whilst they are visiting you.
How much will my rent be?
Weekly charge for hostel accommodation is currently£114.30 per person, this includes heating, lighting, hot water and cooking. If Housing Benefit pays your full accommodation charge, you still have to pay £11.05* every week per household for your amenity charges (heating, hot water and cooking).
How do I pay my rent?
Your Hostel Officer should provide you with a swipe card for paying your rent within the first few weeks of your stay. You can also pay your rent at the Service centre with your rent account number which your hostel officer will provide you with.
Who do I contact in the event of an emergency if you are closed?
The emergency number out of hours is 0207 926 1000.
Further frequently asked questions on hostel accommodation.