Local Connection Rules

Understanding local connection, when you can apply to a different council, and what happens if you have no local connection anywhere.

Relevant for:

At Risk

Currently Homeless

Important Warnings

Do not apply to multiple councils at once. It can delay your application and cause confusion.
If you are fleeing violence, make sure the council knows. You cannot be sent back to an area where you are at risk.

You have a local connection to an area if you have lived there for 6 out of the last 12 months (or 3 out of 5 years), work there, or have close family there.
If you are homeless and apply to a council where you do not have a local connection, they may refer you to another council where you do have a connection.
You cannot be referred if you or someone in your household would be at risk of violence in the other area. This includes domestic abuse.
If you have no local connection anywhere (e.g., you have moved around frequently), the council where you apply has to help you.

You have the right to emergency accommodation while the councils decide if you should be referred.
You can challenge a referral if you believe you do have a local connection or would be at risk in the other area.
The council must tell you in writing if they are referring you and give you the right to a review.