This guidance document forms the second part of our work to improve accommodation options for people with alcohol dependency and complex needs. It is designed to support frontline practitioners by strengthening understanding of housing law and the welfare benefits system. It aims to help professionals support individuals in accessing and maintaining secure, appropriate housing.
The first part of our work in this area sets out a clear direction for local authorities, commissioners, housing providers, and partner agencies. It builds on Alcohol Change UK’s Blue Light Approach, which focuses on those who are often excluded from services and whose needs are frequently unmet.
Every year, large numbers of people approach local authorities either because they are experiencing homelessness or are facing the prospect of becoming homeless. This guidance will help practitioners to understand housing law in order to support people who are alcohol dependent in their journey towards secure and appropriate housing.
In addition, it will look at the welfare benefits system. It will provide an overview of what benefits might be available to people who are alcohol dependent, what the barriers might be to claiming benefits, and how professionals might help clients to get the best outcomes from their claim in order to help them obtain and retain appropriate housing.
Separate sections cover English and Welsh legislation. Many Acts of Parliament apply across both nations, but there are some differences. The law specific to Scotland and Northern Ireland is not covered here. The law relating to asylum seekers or others who are not eligible for local authority housing or support is also not covered in this document. Practitioners are advised to work closely with services or organisations in their areas who specialise in supporting people in this position as such services will have access to specialist advice and provision.
