Housing Support

We understand that housing difficulties can be stressful and may have an impact on health and wellbeing. This information explains what the practice can and cannot provide, how housing applications work locally, and where you can access further support.

Housing Letter Requests

If you are applying for the housing register with Oxford City Council, you do not need a letter from your GP to begin your application. The Council’s application form includes space for you to describe any medical or health-related issues that may affect your housing needs.

If the Council requires further medical information, they will contact the practice directly. In these circumstances, we can only provide information when:

• the request comes directly from the Council or a registered housing provider, and
• you have given written consent for us to share your information.

Please do not request housing letters from reception staff or clinicians, as these fall outside the scope of what GPs are required to provide.

We can provide you with a brief explanation letter if you need to show another organisation why the practice cannot issue housing support letters.

How to Provide Medical Information for Your Housing Application

If you are asked to provide medical information as part of your application, you should include details within the Council’s application form about how your health is affected by your current housing situation.

You may find it helpful to view your medical information via the NHS App, where you can access summaries of your conditions, medications and recent documents. If you are not yet set up, our reception team can help you get started.

The Council will contact the practice directly if they require any additional medical information.

Understanding the Housing Application Process

You can find full information about applying for social housing, including how medical or health factors are assessed, by visiting the Oxford City Council housing application and guidance pages. These explain:

• how to apply
• what documents you need
• how priority (including medical priority) is assessed
• how long you may wait for housing

Your application should include your own explanation of how your health is affected by your current housing situation.

Independent Housing Advice

For guidance on homelessness, tenancy issues, unsuitable accommodation, or difficulties with housing applications, you can access free advice from Shelter England. Their website provides practical information, and they offer a range of support services for people experiencing housing problems.

Support from Our Social Prescribers

If you need help understanding or navigating the housing system, our Social Prescribing Team can support you.

Social Prescribers Can Help With:

• explaining the housing application process
• providing information about what the Council may need
• signposting to tenancy sustainment officers, housing support teams, or specialist advice services
• joint visits or meetings with housing services where appropriate
• helping you gather non-GP documentation you may wish to include in your application

Social Prescribers Cannot:

• write medical evidence or letters
• complete medical sections of housing forms
• advise on property size, urgency, or suitability from a clinical perspective

If you would like support from a Social Prescriber, you can:

• request an appointment via an online consultation
• call us on 01865 762535
• speak to a receptionist at Manor Surgery or Kennington Health Centre

Our team aim to contact you within 5 working days to discuss how we can help.