Step 2: Other housing options
There is a shortage of council housing in Swindon and demand is high. Council and housing association homes are usually offered to people with the greatest housing need, and it can take several years to be rehoused.
If you need somewhere to live sooner, there are other housing options available.
Private renting
You do not need to wait for a council or housing association property to find a home to rent.
Many homes in Swindon are available through private landlords and letting agents. You can contact local letting agents to look for suitable accommodation.
You may be able to get help with rent costs through Housing Benefit or Universal Credit.
Mutual exchanges
If you are a tenant and want to swap your home with another tenant, you must get permission from your landlord.
Find out more about exchanging your council home.
Home Swapper
Home Swapper is a free mutual exchange service for council tenants who want to swap homes.
Some housing associations also use Home Swapper, while others run their own exchange schemes.
Visit the Home Swapper website or contact your landlord for more information.
Low-cost home ownership
Homes England provides information about affordable ways to buy a home.
Find out more about affordable home ownership.
Contact Homes England
- Email: SharedOwnershipSouth@homesengland.gov.uk
- Telephone: 0800 456 1188
Lines are open Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm. They are closed on weekends and bank holidays.
Homelessness prevention
We help prevent homelessness by offering housing advice and support based on your circumstances.
This may include:
- advice to help you keep your current home
- support to help you live independently
- information about alternative housing options
Find out more on our homelessness support pages.
Supported housing
Supported housing helps people live independently by providing accommodation with additional support.
Find out more about supported housing.