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Go to P3 HousingWe support people who are experiencing homelessness while in hospital. We help them find a place to live once they are discharged and provide housing support during their recovery.
Hospital Discharge Support is in place to help you with housing while you’re in recovery. At P3, this support can look like advice for housing or signposting to other local agencies, homelessness prevention and mental health support.
Leaving hospital, or other institutions such as prison or the care system, can be an overwhelming experience, especially if you’re worried about your housing situation.
If you’re at risk of homelessness, it’s important to talk to a member of staff who can help connect you with housing and other support services.
Not sure where to go? We can help. Visit our Get Support page for more information.
Hospitals can’t keep someone in hospital because they don’t have a home to return to. However, discharge planning should take your housing situation into account. Hospital staff should work with local housing and support services to help identify safe accommodation and any support you may need after leaving hospital.
An unsafe discharge happens when someone leaves hospital without the support, accommodation or care they need to recover safely. This could include being discharged to the street, to unsuitable accommodation or without appropriate medical, social care or housing arrangements in place. Everyone should be involved in discharge planning and have their individual needs considered.
In the UK, most NHS hospital treatment is free for people who are ordinarily resident in the country, including people experiencing homelessness. If you’re unsure about your entitlement to healthcare or have concerns about charges, speak to the hospital’s patient advice team or a support worker who can help you understand your options.
Yes. Everyone has the right to access emergency medical treatment when they need it. Being homeless should not prevent someone from attending hospital, receiving emergency care or accessing healthcare services. Hospital staff may also be able to connect people with housing, welfare and support services during their stay.
It depends. If you feel unsafe or believe you are being discharged before appropriate arrangements are in place, it’s important to raise your concerns with hospital staff as soon as possible. Ask to speak to your discharge coordinator, ward manager or the hospital’s patient advice service. They can review your situation and help ensure your needs have been properly considered before you leave.
