I'm homeless or going to become homeless

Please select the option below which best describes your current housing situation.

I am homeless!

Please select Homeless FAQ's from the 'More pages in this section' menu which will give you valuable advice on what your options are and who to contact for assistance and advice.

I am going to become homeless!

Please select Homelessness Prevention from the 'More pages in this section' menu which will give you valuable advice on how to avoid becoming homeless and who to contact for assistance and advice.

Homelessness

Homelessness is something that happens everywhere, and Orkney is no exception to this. Orkney Islands Council’s Homelessness and Advice Section provided advice and assistance to 136 homeless households during financial year 2020/2021. The Council has a legal duty to provide homeless applicants with appropriate advice and assistance. You must be aged 16 or over to present as homeless. If you are aged under 16 you will be referred to Orkney Health and Care for appropriate help.

Homelessness Information Leaflets

The Council has produced information leaflets to explain the homelessness process and the duties that the Council has under the homelessness legislation. You can download these leaflets here through the related downloads section on this page, alternatively hard copies are available from the Council Offices and various local agencies.

Further information on the advice and support available to help deal with domestic abuse is available from Women's Aid Orkney and through the Domestic Abuse Forum. Links to both websites are available through 'Related Sites' section of this page.

Temporary Accommodation

Everyone who is assessed as being homeless is entitled to temporary accommodation for a minimum of 28 days and many applicants are entitled to a permanent home.

Contacts Us

Orkney Islands Council provides a service to all homeless people. If you believe you may be homeless you should contact the Homelessness and Advice Section at Orkney Islands Council for advice and assistance. You can do this by phoning 01856873535 or by visiting our office at the following address:

Homelessness and Advice Section, Housing Services, Orkney Islands Council, School Place, Kirkwall, KW15 1NY.

If you should become homeless outwith office hours, please telephone the duty officer on 07921582962.