Get your own place

The amount of support you are entitled to depends on your care leaver status. Check your rights on the GOV.UK support for care leavers website. 

You will be responsible for paying your rent and bills.

Council housing

We will help you to register for council housing, if we agree you are ready to live on your own. Council housing - or social housing - is accommodation provided by your local housing authority.

Priority for care leavers

Care leavers are given priority on all seven housing authority waiting lists in Norfolk, when you move on from supported accommodation. Once you are on your local housing authority waiting list, you may have to 'bid' (apply) for properties on their website. 

How we will support you

We will support you when you meet your local housing officer. Together we will:  

• Explore all the housing options
• Discuss waiting lists, the 'bid' process and how long you might wait 
• Make sure you understand the responsibilities of managing your own tenancy

For more information, visit your local housing authority's website. 

Find your local council and apply for council housing on GOV.UK 

Private renting

You can rent privately from a landlord who owns the property. It could be through a letting agency.

You will be responsible for paying your rent and bills, so it is important to find somewhere affordable.    

Landlords will want rent in advance, a damage deposit and someone to be a guarantor. If you do not pay your rent or cause damage to the property, the guarantor must pay instead.

How to find a property to rent

Lots of websites list properties for rent, such as Rightmove, Gumtree and Zoopla. You can also Google 'property rentals Norfolk' to find local letting agencies or check local newspapers.

Viewing a rental property

When you look at any properties, take someone with you. They can help make sure you ask the right questions, so you know the property is right for you.

Before you sign a tenancy agreement (the rental agreement between you and the landlord), check:

• You are happy with the condition of the property 
• You know how much rent is and when it needs to be paid
• That an inventory check has been done. This is a list of all the items of furniture and equipment in the property.

How we can help you

Speak to your social worker or personal adviser. We can help you work out how much rent you can afford. We will look at your income and any Local Housing Allowance you get through Universal Credit.

Buying your own home

You might be able to buy a home if you have enough money saved. It could be something you want in the future. To learn more about this option, speak to your personal adviser.

Financial help with housing

Visit our money to help with living costs webpage for information on the Leaving Care Grant and other financial support.