Alternative housing options
Emergencies
If you are homeless or in an emergency situation, we might be able to offer a temporary housing solution while you look for long-term options.
More about the Homelessness service and how to get help.
Mutual exchange
Mutual exchange is a good option to consider if you are looking to move but have not yet been successful via Gateshead Home Choice.
Sheltered accommodation
We manage 36 sheltered schemes (1433 properties), designed to help older people live independently. These schemes include a mix of flats, bungalows and one extra-care housing scheme. Many schemes also feature communal lounges where residents can join activities and meet others.
Applying for sheltered housing
Almost all sheltered schemes are allocated through our Lettings team. To apply, you will need to submit a housing application through Gateshead Home Choice.
Extra-care housing
Extra-care housing, which combines accommodation with an attached care package is assessed by the Adult Social Care team. Eligibility is decided through an adult social care assessment.
Other extra care providers
We work with other providers of extra-care housing such as Housing21. These schemes are also managed through the Adult Social Care team and require an assessment for eligibility.
More information on sheltered accommodation
- view our available sheltered schemes
- contact our Adult Social Care team to learn more about eligibility or extra-care housing
Affordable home ownership
You could get help to buy a home for less than its market value if you're a first-time buyer in England. Find out more.
Shared ownership
This scheme lets you buy a share of your home between 25% and 75% of the home's value and pay rent on the remaining share. You can buy bigger shares when you can afford to. Find a shared ownership home near you.
Housing associations
As well as social housing, housing associations often offer other housing options. Some of our local housing associations include:
- Castles and Coasts (opens new window)
- Home Group (opens new window)
- Karbon Homes (opens new window)
- Keelman Homes (opens new window)
- Places for People (opens new window)
- Riverside (opens new window)
Private rented housing
Renting a home privately in Gateshead can be quicker than waiting for social housing. If you need advice on how to do this, Citizens Advice Gateshead (opens new window) can help you.
Refugees and migration
We offer support for anyone who has fled their home country due to conflict and instability.