The Duty to Refer requires public authorities in England such as social services, hospitals, and prisons to notify local housing authorities of any service users (or others) that maybe homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. It is important that agencies make these referrals, so that we can help to prevent and relieve any homelessness or threat of homelessness effectively.
Before making a referral, the public authority must:
- Have consent for the referral from the person(s) being referred
- Allow the individual to identify the housing authority in England to which they would like to be referred
- Have consent that the service user’s contact details can be given for the housing authority to contact them
You will need:
- Personal details for the service user, including their preferred method of contact
- To confirm that you have consent to the referral from the person(s) being referred
Making a referral
A referral should be made by completing two forms, first the Duty to Refer - Referral form.
Secondly, the individual will need to complete the housing options assessment form.
Partner organisations are asked to support their service user to complete the form, if they require any assistance.
For further information, please email: housing.options@bromley.gov.uk