A young couple with a combined annual income of £29,000 is exploring the possibility of moving into a council flat after being asked to leave their family homes. Currently living with relatives, they are facing pressure to find their own accommodation and have turned to their local council for assistance.
In a Reddit post titled “Do me and my girlfriend have a chance of a 1 bed council flat?”, the 19-year-old man explained their situation: “I work full-time earning £23,000 and my girlfriend works part-time earning £6,000. She’s been living with me since her mother can no longer accommodate her and her sisters due to lack of space. Now, my own mother wants me to move out soon.”
The couple is especially keen on securing their own place because the girlfriend suffers from mild scoliosis, which causes her physical pain and mental strain, making personal space essential for her wellbeing.
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Despite already residing on a council estate, they are unsure about their chances of qualifying for a one-bedroom council flat.
Responses from Reddit users highlighted the challenges they face. Several pointed out that while they are entitled to apply, social housing demand is high, and they may face a lengthy wait. One user noted, “You can’t make yourselves homeless, so as long as you’re living with family, you’re considered adequately housed and may not be given priority.”
Others suggested that moving to full-time work could improve their financial situation enough to afford private renting, at least temporarily. Many comments underscored how social housing is typically reserved for those in urgent need, such as people experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, or significant disabilities. Even then, the waiting period can range from six months to several years.
Some advised that private rental might be a more viable option in the short term, especially since council flats often cannot be viewed prior to being shortlisted, sometimes leaving applicants to choose without assessing the property’s condition.
One user shared their personal experience, highlighting how difficult it is for low-income earners to secure council accommodation: “My mum works full-time as a carer and doesn’t even earn minimum wage, yet she was told to rent privately. Council housing could take years.”
Practical advice from the community included applying for housing benefits and consulting organizations like Citizens Advice for guidance, which might help subsidize private rent while waiting for council housing.
This situation reflects the broader challenges many young couples face when trying to establish independent living in an increasingly competitive housing market.