Housing

Homelessness

Homelessness and runaways

What you need to know

Homelessness can happen for lots of reasons, often because young people run away or are thrown out of their home. You don't have to be sleeping on the streets to be homeless - you could be in emergency housing or staying at friends.

It can be a very emotional and frightening time, and it's important to know that there is help at hand. No matter what your situation is or what's happened you can always get help.

Shelternet and Housemate are websites designed for to give advice on all aspects of housing, whether you are currently homeless or looking to move away from your parents' home. Housemate is specifically designed for young people.

What you can do

If you or someone you know is homeless or might be soon, you can call ChildLine at any time, 24 hours a day, it's free and totally confidential. Call 0800 1111 and talk to a trained counsellor who can advice you on what to do next.
Get help to tackle problems at home before they get unbearable. Try talking to your parents, carers, a friend or a teacher you trust.
Look out for your friends - make sure they know that there is help available if they are having problems.
Look at Shelternet and Housemate in the 'Who can help' section. They are designed to give you information about housing and raise awareness of homelessness.
If the websites do not give you the information you're after, or you would rather speak to someone directly over the phone, call the Shelter freephone line on 0808 800 44 44.