Make a referral under the duty to refer

If you’re a public authority, you’re legally required to notify us of any Hackney service users you think might be homeless or threatened with becoming homeless. 

This helps to ensure that services work together to prevent homelessness by ensuring that peoples’ housing needs are considered when they come into contact with public authorities.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has produced a guide to the duty to refer. It includes guidance about:

• Public authorities with a duty to refer
• Identifying when a referral might be required
• Obtaining consent

Refer a person to Hackney using ALERT – public authorities only

You must have the service user’s consent to make an ALERT referral.

If you’re unable to use ALERT:

• telephone – 0208 356 2929
• email – housingadvice@hackney.gov.uk