Are you about to, or have you recently left care of a local authority and have not secured accommodation?

The Housing Options Service can explain how to express an interest in social landlords or Housing Association properties. We also give advice on finding private rented accommodation and we can refer you to Trafford Rent and Bond scheme if you meet the criteria.

Please remember the earlier you let us help you, the more we can do to solve your housing difficulties. When you come to see us please bring all documents relating to your housing situation.

'Relevant child' - if you are 16 or 17 and were in care for at least 13 weeks since the age of 14 and were looked after on your 16th birthday. 'Relevant Student' - a former relevant child in full time education and your term time accommodation is not available to you during a vacation. 'Child in need' - if a duty is owed to you under the Children Act 1989.

Been in care?

Leaving care and getting your own place is a big step, so it's important that you're well prepared. The social services department has a legal duty to help you prepare. Even though you might have had enough of people interfering in your life, it's important to get what you're entitled to.

Budgeting and rent

Like anyone living on their own for the first time, you'll need to work out a budget and think about how you're going to pay for your accommodation before you leave. You may be able to get help from social services to pay a deposit, and you can also apply for a Community Care Grant to help you set up your own place, or a Crisis Loan or Budgeting Loan to pay rent in advance (see Shelter's Know your rights website or the Department for Work and Pensions website for more details).

Help with housing costs

You'll probably be financially dependent on Social Services until you turn 18. Most care leavers can't claim Housing Benefit until then, although there are some exceptions. Until you're 22, Housing Benefit will not be restricted to the rent for a single room as it is for other under-25s (see 'Money matters', page 28).

Nowhere to stay?

You may be eligible for temporary housing, either from the Social Services department or Trafford's Housing Options Service. Many 16- and 17-year-olds who have been in care should get help from social services, and many 18-, 19-, 20-year-olds who have been in care have a priority for housing from the council. If you think you're entitled to help, but have problems getting them to help you, get advice straight away.