Homeless in Wakefield? How to Find Housing & Support
If you are homeless or at risk of losing your home in Wakefield, there is support available. This guide explains how to secure housing, claim benefits, and access local help hubs.
1. Know Your Housing Budget (Universal Credit)
Your age and circumstances determine how much rent help you get through Universal Credit.
- Aged 35+: You can usually claim for a 1-bedroom flat or a room in a shared house.
- Under 35: You are usually restricted to the Shared Accommodation Rate (the cost of a room in a shared house).
- The Exceptions: You may get the higher 1-bedroom rate if you are a care leaver (under 25), receive disability benefits (PIP/DLA), or have spent 3+ months in a homeless hostel.
2. Where to Find a Landlord in Wakefield
”No DSS” adverts are discriminatory. If you are struggling to find a landlord who accepts benefits, try these steps:
- Wakefield Council Housing Needs (Queens House): Visit them at Queens House, Market Street, WF1 1DF. They can help with Bond Guarantee Schemes to bypass a cash deposit.
- Social Lettings: Contact Sustain Wakefield (Turning Lives Around) at 01924 764078 or check with WDH for supported housing.
- Online Search: Use Gumtree or OpenRent and filter for “DSS accepted” or “No deposit.”
- Free Internet & Printing: If you need a computer for your search, visit the Wakefield Library (inside Wakefield One, Burton Street).
3. Open a “No Fixed Address” Bank Account
You need a bank account for your benefits. Banks like HSBC offer basic accounts for people without a permanent address.
- How to apply: You usually need a referral letter from a recognized charity.
4. Making a Universal Credit Claim
- Claim Online: Start your claim at gov.uk/universal-credit.
- No Internet? Call the Universal Credit Helpline at 0800 328 5644 to book an appointment.
- No Address? If you are sleeping rough, you can use a “Care Of” address. This can be a local day centre or a charity. (with prior permission).
5. Support for Veterans
If you have served in the British Armed Forces for at least one day:
- Op FORTITUDE: Call the dedicated homeless veteran hotline at 0800 952 0774.
- Royal British Legion: Call 0808 802 8080 for housing and emergency financial help.
Important Local Hubs
Queens House (Housing Needs)
- Address: Market Street, Wakefield, WF1 1DF
- Best for: Emergency housing, bond schemes, and homeless assessments.
- Phone: 01924 304360
Wakefield Library (Wakefield One)
- Address: Burton Street, Wakefield, WF1 2DD
- Best for: Free computers, Wi-Fi, and printing property adverts or bank statements.
Emergency Out-of-Hours
If you are on the streets tonight after 5:00 PM, call the Wakefield Council Contact Centre at 0345 8 506 506.
Homeless Help
You Are Not Alone – Help is Available
Whether you need a warm meal, a safe place to sleep tonight, or someone to talk to, there is a way forward. Our Crisis Resource Hub connects you with local Wakefield support for housing, addiction recovery, and mental health.
“No one is too far gone. Anyone can be saved.”