If you are worried about homelessness - for yourself, a friend, or someone you keep seeing around Gnosall - it is worth knowing about Crisis. They are a national homelessness charity that can help people understand their options and find support. Even if you are not sure it "counts" as homelessness (sofa surfing, about to lose your place, unsafe at home), it is still worth getting advice early.

What Crisis can help with

Crisis is best known for practical, on-the-ground support for people experiencing homelessness, plus clear information on rights and next steps. If you are trying to make sense of what help is available, their website is a good starting point: crisis.org.uk.

If you need help locally - where to start

In Staffordshire, the quickest route to emergency housing help is usually your local council. If you are homeless now, or likely to be homeless within the next 8 weeks, contact Stafford Borough Council as soon as you can:

• Stafford Borough Council - housing and homelessness support

You can also use Shelter's emergency advice pages (UK-wide) if you need step-by-step guidance on what to say and what to do next:

• Shelter - housing advice and emergency help

Practical steps that often help (even before you ring anyone)

• Write down what has happened and when (for example, eviction notice dates, messages from a landlord, or why it is unsafe at home)
• Keep any paperwork safe - tenancy agreement, letters, texts, emails
• If you can, take a photo of any notice you have been given
• Ask for help early - councils and charities can do more before you hit crisis point

If you are worried about someone else in Gnosall

If you know the person, a simple offer to help them contact the right service can make a big difference. Point them to Crisis for information, and encourage them to contact Stafford Borough Council for homelessness support.

For local community signposting and parish contacts, you can also check Gnosall Parish Council.

Downloadable Advice

Advice Saves Lives: Social and Economic Impact of Independent Advice Services

A 2024 report documenting the critical role of independent advice services in supporting vulnerable people across the UK, highlighting the sector's funding crisis and calling for urgent government action to ensure these life-changing services can continue operating.

Download PDF

Sexual Assault and Abuse Services in Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent

A comprehensive directory of support services, helplines, and resources for survivors of sexual assault and abuse across all age groups, including young people, adults, students, and mental health support. The leaflet provides contact information and access details for multiple organizations offering medical care, counseling, safeguarding, and prevention services.

Download PDF

Support for British Nationals Abroad: A Guide

A comprehensive guide from the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office outlining the consular services and support available to British nationals living or travelling overseas, including assistance during crises, emergencies, and when problems arise abroad.

Download PDF