If you need somewhere safe to stay while we assess your homelessness application, or after you are found to be homeless, we can offer temporary accommodation.

This page explains the types of accommodation available, what you can expect, how much it costs, and what to do next.

Temporary accommodation is a short-term place to stay while we: 

• assess your homelessness application
• look for suitable longer-term housing
• support you with safety, wellbeing and practical needs

We will always try to meet your needs, but availability is limited.

We offer different accommodation depending on your circumstances and what is available. 

Fully furnished properties 

• A self-contained property for you (and your household, if applicable).
• Most are owned by Falkirk Council; some are leased from private landlords. 
• All properties meet our temporary accommodation standards. 
• Private landlords have no involvement with your stay. 

You may sometimes be offered shared accommodation, which means:

• your own bedroom 
• shared kitchen, bathroom and living areas with others 

Our Accommodation Officers will keep in regular contact with you while you stay there.

Supported accommodation

If you need extra support, we may offer you a place in one of our units for:

• single men aged over 25
• young people aged 16-35
• single people or families 

Support staff help with daily living skills, confidence building, and planning your move to more permanent housing.

Hotel accommodation

If no other accommodation is available, we may use a hotel.

This may be outside the Falkirk Council area.

We try not to use hotel accommodation unless necessary, and we avoid using it for families with children or pregnant women wherever possible. 

During your homelessness interview, we will discuss your safety and whether you need temporary accommodation.

You do not have to take temporary accommodation if you have somewhere safe to stay.

If you accept an offer, we will ask you to:

• sign an occupancy agreement (your rights and responsibilities)
• sign the property rules
• renew your agreement every 6 months (you must be available for this)

If you are unhappy with the accommodation offered, you have the right to ask for a review. 

Everyone staying in temporary accommodation must pay charges. These vary depending on the type.

Fully furnished properties

• Rent is based on Local Housing Allowance (LHA) for the size of property.
• You must also pay fuel and Council Tax. 

Supported accommodation

• Weekly rent: £455.89 - £580.02, depending on the unit
• Fuel charge: £15.40 per week (not covered by Housing Benefit)
• No Council Tax charge

Hotel accommodation

• Weekly rent: £105.86
• No fuel or Council Tax charges

Shared accommodation

• Weekly rent: around £95.00
• Weekly service charge: £13.86 (not covered by Housing Benefit)
• No fuel or Council Tax charges

We will always tell you the costs before you move in. 

If you are on a low income or receive benefits, Housing Benefit may cover some or all of your charges.

We will help you complete the Housing Benefit form when you enter temporary accommodation.

It's important to apply quickly. If you delay:

• your benefit may not be assessed in time
• you may owe us money for charges not covered