How does council and social housing work in the UK?

Social housing is provided by councils and housing associations at below-market rents. Eligibility depends on immigration status and housing need. Apply through your local council housing department. You are assessed on priority: homelessness or threat of it, overcrowding, medical needs, dependent children. Wait times vary enormously — years in London and the South East. Zimbabweans with ILR or citizenship generally qualify. Those on temporary visas generally do not, though some housing association properties may be accessible. Housing Benefit or Universal Credit housing element helps with rent if eligible. If homeless or at risk, your council has a legal duty to assess and may provide temporary accommodation. Citizens Advice and Shelter provide free housing advice. For newcomers, private renting or house shares are the typical first step while building stability. Some areas have specific migrant housing support organisations. Keep records of all housing communications. If placed in temporary accommodation, you have rights regarding conditions and duration. Housing is often the biggest financial challenge for newly arrived Zimbabweans.