Anybody struggling to find somewhere to live is able to apply to the council for accomodation, it's down to the council how they assess your case. Things that may affect the time and your status on the housing list would be Over crowding, private rent - property sold underneath you, single parents - young children - these situations usually prioritize over people who make themselves homeless i.e sale of home, bankrupcy, or eviction due to arrears. A quick re housing could be 2 month waiting although some waiting lists extend 3 yrs it depends on the area and the borough.