Important legal information

HelpNeeded provides general information about rights and processes in the United Kingdom. It does not provide legal advice, and nothing on this site should be treated as legal advice.

We are not a law firm. We are not solicitors, barristers or regulated legal advisers, and we are not regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority or the Bar Standards Board.

The 'Hope Corner' feature uses artificial intelligence. AI-generated responses can be inaccurate, incomplete or simply wrong. They are casual conversations only, and must not be relied upon when making decisions.

Laws and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Before acting on anything you read here, please confirm it with a qualified adviser — many are free, and we list them on our 'Where to get help' page.

Our information focuses on the law in England and Wales. Some rules are different in Scotland and Northern Ireland — organisations such as Citizens Advice cover all nations and can confirm what applies where you live.

If you are in immediate danger, call 999. If you need urgent housing help because you are homeless tonight, contact your local council's housing team or Shelter's emergency helpline.