If you need a place to sleep tonight you should contact an advice agency as soon as possible. An adviser may be able to help you avoid becoming homeless, or help you get emergency accommodation from the Housing Executive. The Housing Executive has a duty to provide advice on homelessness and its prevention to anyone in Northern Ireland who asks for it.

You can also apply directly to your local Housing Executive District Office . The Housing Executive can usually only provide a place in a hostel . If you need help outside office hours you can use the Housing Executive's emergency service.

Hostels and nightshelters

If you need a place to sleep tonight, your best option may be a hostel or a nightshelter. You can get details of hostels and nightshelters in your area from your local Housing Executive District Office. More

Staying in your home

If you are about to become homeless you may have rights to stay in your home. Negotiate with your landlord or lender. If you are having problems with the people you live with you may be able to get help to improve your relationship More

Women's refuges

If you are homeless because of domestic abuse, you may be able to get a place in a refuge. Domestic abuse includes violence, threats, intimidating behaviour and bullying. More

Bed and breakfasts

If you need a place to sleep tonight, you may be able to find a place to stay in a bed and breakfast. You can get details of cheap bed and breakfasts in your area from the Housing Executive or an advice centre. More

Staying with friends and family

Staying with friends or family can be a good option if you have difficulties in your accommodation and need some time to work out your options. But it doesn't give you many rights. More

Paying for emergency accommodation

You will usually have to pay rent for your emergency accommodation. The rent depends on the type of accommodation. You should always apply for housing benefit through your local Housing Executive District Office More

How the Housing Executive can help

The Housing Executive has a legal responsibility to provide temporary accommodation for certain groups of people. More

Help from an adviser

Contacting an advice agency could help you to keep your current home, ensure you get the help you are entitled to and/or help you find emergency accommodation. More