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Types of accommodation listed on Homeless London

There are many types of hostel and supported housing project listed on the Advanced accommodation search.

Different projects accept people with different support needs – see the “Target group” on each individual hostel entry. They also deal differently with applications to stay in them. Some accept direct applications from the person who wants to stay (“self referrals”), some take referrals from any agency and some only take referrals from specific agencies such as the local Housing Department or outreach teams working with rough sleepers – see “Referral agencies” on each individual hostel entry. Go to Routes into hostels for further information.

The meanings of the different types of accommodation are explained below.

Emergency accommodation

For people who urgently need accommodation.

  • Quick access - Short stay hostels for homeless people needing emergency accommodation. Often for people sleeping rough. May take self referrals or referrals only from specialist agencies working with rough sleepers and homeless people.
  • Nightstop - For young homeless people usually aged 16-25. Very short stay (3-5 nights). A bedroom in the home of a volunteer host. May accept self referrals but often only take referrals from specific agencies.
  • Winter shelter - Basic emergency accommodation available in winter. Often in church halls.

Second stage accommodation

Other projects for homeless people (often those moving on from emergency accommodation).

  • Foyer - For young people (usually aged 16-25) who need the support offered around employment, education and training.
  • Housing scheme - For people with fairly good independent living skills. Accommodation in shared houses or self contained flats with regular staff visits.
  • Low support - Hostels for people who only need a low level of support with daily living skills. Staff may be on site or may visit regularly.
  • Medium support - For homeless people who need a medium level of support with daily living skills. Staff are usually based on site.
  • Supportive - For homeless people who need a high level of support and are unable to live independently.

Specialist accommodation

For people with specific support needs as well as housing needs.

  • Alcohol and drugs - For people with alcohol or drug problems. Most projects are “dry” where alcohol is banned, but some “wet” alcohol projects allow drinking.
  • Ex-offenders - For people with a history of offending or at risk of offending.
  • Mental health - For people who have mental health problems.
  • Working people - For people who are in employment and have no or very low support needs.