Uprooting upset
Question
Im 16-years-old and my family and I have recently moved town which has meant leaving my boyfriend. Im really starting to miss him and my friends and hate having to be alone just to keep my parents happy.
Whats the easiest and cheapest way of moving back to my hometown and renting a flat?
Answer
It must be very difficult trying to adapt to a new lifestyle in a new town away from your boyfriend and friends.
Finding a home can be very difficult due to the high cost of housing and your options will be limited to how much you can afford. There are a number of options, but you may want start by contacting a local advice agency such as the Citizen's Advice Bureau (CAB), your local Shelter office or Law Centre.
One option is to put your name down on the council waiting list. As they don't work on a 'first come, first served' basis, you could be waiting a while to be housed. It's still worth getting on the list, as many councils will give you extra points the longer you're on it. You could also put your name down on any housing association waiting lists in the area. Some housing associations run a joint list with the council.
Another option is foyers. This accommodation is for people under the age of 25 and usually has a waiting list. Some will let you apply to them directly, but others want the council or another advice centre to arrange the place for you. Foyers also like residents to be undertaking training or education whilst they are there.
You could look for somewhere to rent privately. This can be quite expensive if you are on a low income but is often the easiest and quickest way to find somewhere to live. You may be entitled to claim housing benefit to help towards the cost. If you're willing to share, renting a room in a shared house might be more affordable than renting somewhere just for the two of you. If you don't have the money for a deposit, there may be a scheme in your area that can help you.
It would probably be worth speaking to a benefits advisor about your financial situation. The CAB can deal with most benefits issues. You will need to establish whether there are any benefits that you'll be entitled to if you no longer live with your parents and whether you'll be eligible to claim housing benefit.
Updated: 25/09/2008
Question answered by Shelter
