What to Do If You’re Made Homeless Due to False Allegations or Fleeing Domestic Abuse

By Michael Thompson

Being forced out of your home is one of the most traumatic things a person can go through — especially when it happens because of false allegations or because you’ve had to escape domestic abuse. I’ve spoken to hundreds of people in exactly this situation, and it’s clear many don’t realise what their rights are under housing law in England and Wales.

Whether you’re male or female, falsely accused or genuinely fleeing violence, here’s what you need to know — and what you should do if you suddenly find yourself homeless.

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1. You’re Probably Legally Homeless

This is the first thing to understand: you don’t need to be sleeping rough to qualify for housing support. If you can’t safely return home because of violence, threats, or allegations — even if they’re false — you’re legally classed as homeless.

This includes:

Being forced to leave your home by the police or a court order

Fleeing abuse (physical, emotional, psychological)

Sofa-surfing or staying temporarily with friends/family

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2. Go Straight to Your Local Council’s Housing Department

Ask to make a homelessness application. This triggers a legal duty for the council to assess your situation and offer help.

Tell them:

Why you had to leave

That it’s not safe to return

Any information or evidence you’ve got (court orders, police reports, medical letters, etc.)

The council must not take sides — their role is to help you find somewhere safe, not to judge the allegations.

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3. Ask for Emergency Housing

If you’ve got nowhere to sleep tonight, say so clearly. You’re entitled to emergency accommodation while your case is assessed. This could be a hostel, B&B, or temporary flat.

You have priority if:

You have children or are responsible for a child

You’re considered vulnerable (mental health, disability, risk of harm)

You’re fleeing domestic abuse

Even single men — who are often overlooked — can meet the criteria depending on the facts of their case.

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4. You Still Have Rights If You’ve Been Falsely Accused

This is important. I speak to a lot of people who’ve been removed from their homes after an accusation and assume they’ve lost all rights. Not true.

Even if you’re on bail conditions or under investigation:

You still have a legal right to apply as homeless

You don’t need to prove the allegations are false in order to get help

The focus is on your need for housing, not guilt or innocence

If you’re the legal tenant or owner of the property, you may also have legal options to return — though it’s best to get advice before trying to do so.

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5. Get Help with Your Application

Some councils are very good. Others aren’t. I’ve seen housing officers wrongly turn people away — especially men — simply because they didn’t understand the law.

If you’re struggling, get help from:

Shelter – 0808 800 4444

Citizens Advice

A solicitor (legal aid might apply)

You also have a right to challenge any poor decisions. If you're offered accommodation that's unsuitable (too far from your kids, unsafe, unaffordable), you can ask for a review.

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6. Getting Long-Term Housing

Once the council accepts a main housing duty, they must work with you to find longer-term housing. That includes:

Putting together a personalised housing plan

Helping you access private or social housing

Possibly placing you on the council’s housing list with extra priority

Be proactive and follow up — and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you're getting nowhere.

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Final Thoughts

If you’ve been made homeless because of abuse or false allegations you are not powerless. You have rights under the law, and support is available. The system doesn’t always work as it should, but with the right knowledge and guidance, you can get through it.

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Michael Thompson

Founder, Falsely Accused Network