Case Study: Preventing Unintentional Homelessness for a Single Mother

This intervention prevented a vulnerable family from becoming unintentionally homeless. By

providing legal clarity, emotional reassurance, and practical negotiation strategies, USPUK

empowered the mother to remain housed temporarily while securing a healthier long term

solution.

It also reflects the critical importance of community-based organisations like USPUK in helping refugees overcome administrative barriers and ensure their children are not left behind in education.

Case Study: Preventing Unintentional Homelessness for a Single Mother

Background

A single mother with two young children (ages 4 and 2) was supported by USPUK in navigating both education and housing challenges. Earlier in the year, assistance was provided to complete a school application for her 4 year old daughter. Although the child initially secured a school place, she struggled to settle. The mother decided to defer her daughter’s start until the following academic year.

Housing Challenge

In October, the mother approached USPUK for advice regarding her housing situation. On 1st October, her landlord informed her that the tenancy contract would not be renewed and was due to expire at the end of the month.

While searching for alternative accommodation, she identified a property but later discovered it was in very poor condition, posing risks to her children’s health.

With only five days left before the tenancy ended, she faced significant anxiety and panic, fearing immediate eviction and homelessness. The landlord expected vacant possession by 1st November, leaving her in a vulnerable position.

Intervention

USPUK conducted an initial assessment and provided tailored guidance:

• Legal Advice: Explained that the landlord could not evict her without a court order, a process that typically takes several months, and only if rent payments ceased.

• Practical Guidance: Advised her to communicate openly with her Job Centre coach about her situation.

• Negotiation Strategy: Recommended negotiating with the landlord, committing to pay rent on time and promising to vacate once suitable housing was secured.

• Risk Management: Emphasized the importance of not leaving the property prematurely, as doing so could be considered “intentional homelessness” by the council, potentially damaging her housing record.

Outcome

Following USPUK’s advice, the mother:

• Negotiated successfully with her landlord, who agreed to allow her more time to find suitable accommodation, despite not renewing the contract.

• Avoided immediate homelessness and the associated risks to her children’s health and wellbeing.

• Reduced her anxiety and regained stability, enabling her to search for housing calmly and responsibly.

Impact

This intervention prevented a vulnerable family from becoming unintentionally homeless. By providing legal clarity, emotional reassurance, and practical negotiation strategies, USPUK empowered the mother to remain housed temporarily while securing a healthier long term solution.

At USPUK, we are committed to supporting refugee families with:

• Access to education

• Navigating local authority systems

• Empowering parents with knowledge and confidence

We continue to work so that no child misses out on their right to education due to a lack of information.

Note: after application was completed, all data of Ms. Sameera has bee deleted for data protection.

Information Packs from USPUK

At USPUK, we provide detailed info packs on various topics for displaced people. We assist those coming to the UK through programs like ACRS and ARAP.

If you would like to get involved or if you would like to access our Information Packs, you can find out more on our website in the Get Help section.