Homelessness
Finding help when home is missing
Losing your home changes your whole life. Suddenly questions like: "Where can I sleep?" or "How can I get a new apartment?" arise. Without a fixed abode, you lack the security that a home of your own offers.
Signs that you need support
Homelessness doesn't happen overnight. There are often warning signs that show you need support.
- If you are threatened with eviction: If you owe rent or are facing eviction proceedings, it is important to act quickly.
- No fixed abode: If you have to stay with friends, relatives or in emergency accommodation, you are officially homeless.
- Unclear housing prospects after separation or relocation: After a separation or relocation, many people find themselves without a fixed place of residence.
- Feeling overwhelmed: If you lose track of documents, rent or payment deadlines, a consultation can help you sort out the situation.
Finding support: What help is available?
Counselling and support
- Emergency housing advice centers: These centers help people to find accommodation, accompany them when dealing with the authorities and provide support with applications for social benefits.
- Social advice centers: Here you can get support with rent debts, the threat of dismissal and questions about social benefits such as citizen's allowance or housing benefit.
- Streetwork and mobile advice: Mobile teams are out and about on the streets and speak to people who are living without a fixed address.
Acute help for homeless people
- Emergency shelters and overnight shelters: Here you can find a place to sleep, a hot meal and basic care at short notice.
- Day shelters and warming rooms: These facilities offer protection from the cold during the day and the opportunity to eat, shower or wash clothes.
- Clothing and food banks: Here you can obtain clothing, toiletries and food - often free of charge or for a small donation.
Housing search and prospects
- Housing agencies: These agencies help to find housing that is suitable for people on low incomes.
- Assisted forms of housing: For people who have been without a home for a long time, there are assisted forms of housing in which they can gradually live independently again.
- Assistance in finding accommodation: Social services and advice centers help in the search for a new home and accompany the application process.
Frequently asked questions about advice on homelessness
Many advice centers for homeless people offer a postal and registration address so that you can receive important documents and apply for social benefits. The social welfare office can also tell you where to register.
Yes, housing offices, social housing assistance and homeless counseling services help with finding accommodation, clarify financial assistance and provide support in discussions with landlords. In some cases, there are special programs that place homeless people in housing.
If you have rent arrears, the Jobcenter, the social welfare office or a debtor advice service can help. In some cases, rent arrears, housing benefit or other social benefits can be paid. Seek advice at an early stage to avoid termination or eviction.
Let us advise you now!
No one has to stay without a home. Counseling centers, emergency shelters and social counseling services can help you end your homelessness. Start now - the first steps will get you back into a safe home.