Sofa Surfing

Many young people spend time staying on family or friend’s floors and sofas when they first leave home – especially if they have left in a hurry.

If you are in this situation, it is important to go to the Housing Options Team at the council to talk through the types of permanent accommodation that are available to you. You are still legally defined as homeless even though you have a roof over your head and somewhere to sleep.

Sofa surfing can be difficult for everyone involved. It is stressful having to stay in someone’s house and abide by their rules – particularly if the household is already crowded or only just coping financially. It can feel uncomfortable to outstay your welcome, and can be hard to accept help when you are unable to contribute to the household. For the hosts, it can be difficult to ask somebody to leave when you aren’t able to help them any more.

If you are staying with friends or family temporarily, remember to be considerate of your hosts. Make sure you are clear on the ‘rules’ of the house and abide by them, do your share of the household chores and keep your things tidy. Make sure you thank your hosts – contribute money, food or help out as much as you can. Keep them informed of your plans to find longer-term accommodation so they know that you don’t plan to stay forever!

You might be able to claim an emergency food or toiletries parcel from the Broxtowe Basic Box Scheme to help you make a contribution to the host family or to look after yourself while you are staying with them.

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