The HIR team provides information including tenancy advice, information about priority access to public housing, establishing and maintaining private rental, and community housing options such as rooming houses and co-operatives.

Housing Option Assessment

In line with the key aims of NEHS, housing options and preferences are assessed in conjunction with the client. This process determines whether the current housing situation can be stabilised and whether this will be stable and suitable in the longer term.

Where there are no other appropriate housing options, clients are assessed for entry into transitional housing. When there is a delay in the availability of transitional housing clients are referred to other appropriate crisis housing services, e.g. youth or women’s refuges. If these options aren’t available or appropriate HEF resources may allow NEHS to provide financial assistance to cover temporary accommodation in hotels or caravan parks while waiting for access to transitional housing.

Referrals to Support and Housing Related Services

All clients approaching NEHS, whether offered transitional housing or not, are made aware of the availability of appropriate support services. Information and or referral is provided in consultation with the client.

Exiting Transitional Housing

If transitional housing tenants are not receiving support from any other service to exit transitional housing, a HIR worker at NEHS will assist the tenant to find long-term housing. In most cases Exit Planning will occur prior to entry into transitional housing, including being assessed for eligibility for priority access to public housing. In exceptional circumstances Exit Planning may be delayed until the tenant has taken occupancy.