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Night Shelters & Hostels
How to access emergency overnight accommodation, what to expect, and how to find a bed.
Relevant for:
Currently Homeless
Important Warnings
- Some hostels are safer than others. If you feel unsafe, speak to staff or contact the council.
- Emergency accommodation can be crowded or noisy. It is temporary, but it is better than sleeping rough.
- Night shelters offer emergency accommodation for rough sleepers. They are usually run by charities and churches, especially in winter.
- Hostels provide longer-term accommodation. Some are direct access (you can turn up), others require a referral from the council or a charity.
- Some hostels are for specific groups (e.g., women only, young people, people with mental health needs).
- You may be asked to leave your belongings in storage overnight. Some shelters have rules about drugs, alcohol, or pets.
- You have the right to emergency accommodation if the council accepts you are homeless and in priority need.
- You should not be turned away from a night shelter without being offered alternative support or signposted elsewhere.
- You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect in any accommodation.
Next Steps
Important Action
Find local services
Use Homeless Link to search for night shelters, hostels, and day centres near you.
Important Action
Call the council out of hours
If it is evening or weekend, call the council emergency number. They must provide emergency accommodation if you are in priority need.
Contact local churches or charities
Many run emergency night shelters, especially in winter. Ask at day centres or call StreetLink for information.
External Resources
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