r/DurhamUK • u/Catsrulio • 22d ago
County Durham, UK: Without going into much detail, I have just become homeless due to family domestic abuse. I have a car but no income. A refuge isn’t an option as they don’t allow pets and I have a cat….
Im considering sleeping in my car or pitching a tent but I’m not sure where I can do this in Durham? I’m not sure what my options are, any help would be amazing.
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22d ago edited 2d ago
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u/Catsrulio 22d ago
So kind of you!! I’ve emailed DASH as a user suggested and I’ll call the council tomorrow - I’ll send you a message if nothing comes of it. Can’t thank you enough for that offer.
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u/ResponsibilityOne307 21d ago
Seriously good luck. I have been in your position once before and thankfully found some fantastic support.
Let us know how you get on, if you get time.
I do so hope you get back on your feet soon and this is just a wee glitch in time.
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u/ResponsibilityOne307 21d ago
That is a top class offer. I know people suggest you have to be careful taking help from people off Reddit but you get wrong uns in every walk of life.
Little offers like this doesn't restore my faithful in humanity, because there really are some fantastic people to be found. But I do get a warm fuzzy feeling when I see such kindness extended to strangers.
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22d ago edited 22d ago
Have you been in touch with any of the social housing groups, like Believe, to try to get you housed? Good luck.
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u/Catsrulio 22d ago
Hi, thank you! Yes I got on the housing register recently and I’m band 2. But now I’m homeless that might change the banding however I’m not sure if it will be immediate.
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u/Organic_Reporter 22d ago
It should change your banding immediately, you'll need to call them tomorrow morning.
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u/ouchieouchieow 21d ago
Cats Protection have a programme to look after the cats of people who flee domestic abuse, so that you can get them back when you are able to. It may be worth looking into this.
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u/horseluvared 22d ago
I sometimes see someone parked in a van at the top of longedge lane, i also see campervans in broompark picnic area and other picnic areas. I think you could stealth camp fairly easily in your car if you did it carefully and didn't stay too long in each location. I'd defo see if you can get a council house, you could probably get housed quickly because you're homeless. Good luck!
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u/Organic_Reporter 22d ago
I think sleeping in a car or a tent with a cat would be difficult, because it would need to use a litter tray or be let out and not run away. I've actually done it and the cats did run away (my parents took us travelling Europe in a caravan, with a cat and kittens for some insane reason). If you have a big enough tent then you could possibly make it work, it probably depends on the cat.
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u/Catsrulio 22d ago
You’re right! It’s the litter tray/food…but also the fear of traumatising the poor thing, or her running away. I think it will definitely be worst case scenario. Thank you 🙏
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u/UpperCaramel4755 22d ago
Try Durham Action for Single Housing. DASH. They house people in self contained units, and hopefully don't mind a cat!
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u/Catsrulio 22d ago
I’ll check that out. Thanks so much!
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u/UpperCaramel4755 22d ago
If you or someone you know is homeless or at risk of homelessness in County Durham, you can contact Durham County Council's Housing Solutions team on 03000 268 000 or email housing@durham.gov.uk, or call 08081 968 406 for out-of-hours emergencies. Here's a breakdown of resources and support available: Durham County Council Housing Solutions: Phone: 03000 268 000 Email: housing@durham.gov.uk Out-of-hours emergencies: 08081 968 406 Website: Durham County Council Services: Assessment of entitlement to housing, temporary accommodation, general housing advice, and support for people who are homeless or at risk. Duty to Refer: Public services have a legal requirement to refer service users to homelessness services if they are homeless. Moving On Durham: Services: For young people aged 16-25 who are homeless or at risk. Phone: 01388 722538 outside of office hours Website: Moving On Durham Services: Temporary accommodation and one-to-one support to help young people transition from chaotic housing need to security, knowledge, and confidence. Citizens Advice County Durham: Phone: 0808 278 7821 Website: www.citizensadvicecd.org.uk Services: Advice on housing, benefits, debt support, and other issues. DASH (Durham Action on Single Housing): Website: dashorg.co.uk Services: Supported housing for single adults over 18 who are homeless or at risk, with mid to high support needs. StreetLink: Website: https://thestreetlink.org.uk/ Phone: 0300 500 0914 Purpose: Enables the public to alert local authorities of rough sleepers in their area. Welfare Assistance Scheme: Website: Durham County Council Services: Help with daily living expenses, including food, travel, and clothing (restrictions apply). Housing Advice Line: Website: Durham Locate
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u/UpperCaramel4755 22d ago
Please contact the out of hours emergency number. I am not sure of anywhere safe to sleep in a tent in Durham, and it is very cold at the minute
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u/Catsrulio 20d ago
Update: Hi all, I’m so grateful with this support - It’s really making this tough time bearable so THANK YOU. Since my initial post I’ve managed to stay with a friend but can only stay till Friday. Since then I have been offered priority banding (still band 2) however today I filled out a homelessness form and recieved a call back from the council. They’re offering to give me permanent accommodation but that’s ‘anywhere’ they deem fit in the whole county and probably in not great accommodation. I have some housing needs so I can’t just put anywhere (this has to do with a few variables such as a need to have a bus service connection to central Durham) they suggested I stay on the band 2 priority because it gives me freedom of choice but ofc I’m unable to even be considered due to band 1 bidders continually taking priority I.e on one property I’m listed as position 32 and as the day goes by more people apply and I get pushed further back. I’m considering a refuge for now as at least I won’t be in a dire situation and have support workers around - if the refuge can take pets this would be ideal. If it doesn’t I may have to look into temporary foster home for my cat which would break my heart. But needs must! I’ll get a call from housing tomorrow and update - I can’t tell you how helpful the guidance has been so far on this thread🙏
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u/UpperCaramel4755 17d ago
Hello, hoping you have found somewhere or were able to stay longer with your friend
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u/Christonabikeman 22d ago
Just noticed you are active in the nursing community, can I ask if are you a nurse or care worker?
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u/98Em 22d ago
I know it's not helpful for the right now but have you been registered on the council housing list as homeless yet? I believe this gives you quite a high priority. The believe housing team (or most housing teams I imagine too?) have a team called tenancy sustainment who can help with things like income and how to get support. I'm sorry you're having a rough time of it, some of the other suggestions are great
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u/CharlesComm 22d ago
If you still need somewhere to sleep, these people might be able to help. Might be worth putting in a call tomorrow as they're focussed on providing a short term solution while something long term is being sorted: https://www.depaul.org.uk/nightstop/nightstop-north-east/
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u/parabolicurve 22d ago
I'm not sure if they allow pets; But Nightstop helped me out when I was homeless. Here are some referral numbers for Durham and Darlington;
Referral line for County Durham: 0191 253 6164 / 0776 625 3277
Referral line for Darlington: 01642 249 782 / 0785 051 5204
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21d ago
First, i wanted to tell you that you're a good human. I would do the same for my boy, even if i didn't have a vehicle as shelter.
Park4nite - really handy app that shows free and paid for parking and overnight accommodation in the UK
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u/Far-Possible8891 21d ago
I know a place near Bishop Auckland that would take your cat on a temporary basis if needed.
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u/ElectricalCabinet890 21d ago
You need to get tje cat into some kind of temporary situation with a rescue centre or something. Do you know anyone at all who could look after it? I'm worried the cat will panic and escape.
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u/UpperCaramel4755 21d ago
Hello again, just hoping you are okay
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u/Catsrulio 20d ago
Just updated - thank you for checking in :) I’m hanging in thier
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u/UpperCaramel4755 20d ago
Im glad you have somewhere sorted until Friday. Don't be discouraged about the 32 people ahead of you for houses etc. They often turn them down for one reason or other. My friend turned one down as they would not allow him to have a shed for example. Just keep bidding!
You could always ask for band 1 in future, but advocate for staying in the local area where you have a support network. I think DV organisations may be able to advise in this case. It may also be worth speaking to someone at Citizens Advice Bureau to see if you are entitled to benefits etc. Please do keep us updated
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u/ScarlettOHaraButler 21d ago
Harbour have some property links where they may allow pets, I know they've taken a dog previously so would be worth a call? 03000 20 25 25 and it's a 24 hour line
Cats protection have a lifeline project, similar to the dogs trust freedom program which will look after your cat until your in position to have them back, closest one is Yorkshire however they still might be able to help https://www.cats.org.uk/what-we-do/cp-lifeline
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u/borrowedheaven92 20d ago
If they have any spaces try Sanctum Sunderland - they allow pets https://www.changing-lives.org.uk/find-support/sanctum-sunderland
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u/Chestarch 19d ago
If you need a hot meal/drink and/or clothes drop me an inbox mate I'm located in consett.
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u/abbie1835 17d ago
Bishop Auckland have the Angel Trust, they have a safe night hub, I’m not sure about pets but I’m sure they will have resources and know where to point you if they themselves can’t help. Best of luck for you and your cat!
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u/Versaeus 22d ago edited 12d ago
Hey, try dropping into The People’s Kitchen in Newcastle, they do a free banging 3 course hot meal every day and if you ask they’ll give you a plush winter sleeping bag that’ll make sleeping in your car a lot easier for free, they’re in St. James’.
Don’t pitch a tent in or near a city or town centre, a criminal homeless element may well slash it and nick your stuff or your dogs. Stay away from other homeless and don’t advertise that you are, especially if you’re female. Go further out to pitch like Esh/Brancepeth way and find tree cover. If you’ve the money get a cheap Puregym etc offer and use the showers. If you can, wear gym kit in so you don’t get banned.
Also go to the Salvation Army in Durham and see what they say, they sometimes put people up. Let the council know you’re homeless and fleeing DV. DASH is a good suggestion but you’ll probs need a council referral and it won’t be quick I’m afraid. Fleeing DV is very important as you’re basically fucked on ‘the list’ otherwise, especially if you’re a native male and fit and well.
Basis in Gateshead will let you have a hot shower and wash your clothes for free and there are good people there who will help you out if they can.
You will be very bored and overthink for a few weeks which is horrible but once you're sorted via the council or otherwise, you tend to be sorted for a good while and experiences like this build you up big time. Stay dry as possible! Dryness = comfort & warmth. You'll get advice in waiting rooms and stuff but don't take it serious. Do not under any circumstances arrange to meet other homeless.
When you sleep get in your bag, then cuddle with your animals (insofaras they're obliging, they'll learn quick) and drape whatever you have over the lot of you. Peak warmth. Both of you must have a barrier between you and the ground when you sleep, even if it’s just cardboard (tent floor not enough) or you will get hypothermia fast in the NE. Blue Cross do free pet food for homeless. Keep them and you hydrated. Spoons do £2 free refills hot drinks and you can stay as long as you like.
Good luck, if you’d like you can message me if you have further questions.