Homelessness

Will the Council provide me with temporary accommodation?

The council has a duty to advise and assist everyone who may be currently homeless, but this does not always mean that you will be provided with temporary accommodation. We will make an assessment of your current situation and circumstances and if you are considered to be in 'priority need' or if you are homeless as a result of an emergency then we may be able to provide accommodation for you on a temporary basis while we help you to resolve your homelessness.

What is priority need?

There are a range of households which would be 'in priority need' by virtue of their circumstances - for example having dependent children, being pregnant, these are outlined in full in guidance issued by the government. A Housing Advisor will make a decision on each case after having considered all the relevant circumstances.

What is an emergency?

We consider flood, fire, or other disaster to be an emergency. 

What and where is temporary accommodation?

Temporary accommodation is somewhere to live for a short time while you look for permanent accommodation. It could be in a hostel, hotel or refuge. Access to temporary accommodation is very limited within the Harborough district and at times we have to make arrangements outside of the district. UPDATE August 2026 Time spent in temporary accommodation is now significantly increasing. It is now anticipated that some households - particularly those requiring 3 bedroom or larger accommodation - may now be in temporary accommodation in excess of 2 years 

Will I have to pay for temporary accommodation?

Yes, like all accommodation there is a charge for temporary accommodation. The exact temporary accommodation charge will depend on the type of temporary accommodation and your circumstances. The minimum temporary accommodation charge is £105 per week. A successful Housing Benefit application may reduce the charge.

Non-payment of temporary accommodation charges will bring the accommodation to an end. If you are struggling to pay your charges please speak with your Housing Advisor.