Why you should stay with friends or family while you find a place to live, and how you can afford it
There aren't enough council or housing association homes in Bristol, and buying or renting privately is expensive, so it might take a while for you to find a place to live.
Unless you're in an emergency, it's better to stay with family or friends while you look for a home.
This should help you save money for your move, find or keep a job, and collect household essentials while staying somewhere familiar and safe.
Staying with family or friends will cost less, but it's a good idea to help with chores or contribute to costs to stay on good terms.
How you can afford it
If you're staying with friends or family for a short time, it probably won't affect their benefits or Council Tax. If this becomes your main home, it could affect their benefits, but this doesn't necessarily mean you'll both be worse off.
If you're staying with someone who isn't part of your family and paying them rent, you may be eligible for Universal Credit to help with your housing costs. If they also get Universal Credit, their benefits won't be affected by the money you give them.
You can't claim benefits for rent if you live with family. Your family member's Universal Credit or Council Tax Reduction may go down because you're staying with them, and you might need to help cover the lost benefits, but this could still be a lot cheaper than temporary accommodation.
Check how much benefit you're entitled to in different situations using the benefit calculator.
For more advice, find an advice agency near you.