we have to move, as atm we are living with OH's twin brother and bubs in a two bedroom flat on the fourth floor (quite exhausting to go out with bubs + pram, I surely do not need a gym anymore)!!!!!

I asked OH already 'bout it, but obviously his head is full of work and his new life with bubs, that so far he didn't got round to it! as well there is always sth new coming up and whilst he is still fine with the situation, I am desperate to move!

that's why I wanted to get this going myself now, but as I never applied for a council flat in this country before (I am originally from Germany), I don't know what to do?

where can I apply for a council flat and who is eligible for a council flat?

renting from private in London is just way too much!!!

would appreciate your help guys

First step would be to find out the local housing assiciations and get application forms from them.
The CAB should be able to give you a list of places.

You have a good case for overcrowding so shouldnt be a problem to get housed.

do u know how long it approximately takes to get housed?

I cant really say, it depends on the area, how long their list is and what priority you are.

well, OH said today he will get an application form from the town hall tomorrow

when I google, I always can find that there are long lists in our borough

but priority wise, I hope it helps that we are overcrowded and with baby!

anyways, I count with a waiting time of about a year!

is this realistic?

ps: that's why I want to apply asap, and if OH doesn't get the app tomorrow, I will kick his ass

I think a year could be realistic, just remember it could take longer.

We've been on the list for 2 years in July and it's not looking promising at the moment, so I would tell you to expect a fairly long wait (especially as you're from Germany - not 100% if that makes a major difference, but I believe the process can be a little more complicated). Our problem at the moment is that we are applying to the council about 20 mins away (where my boyfriend used to live) but because his family moved away more than 3 years ago to here, they won't give us priority.. even if we are "homeless" as we don't have "local area connection" (a joke considering that most of his family still live there) so make sure you apply to your local council if you want to stress that you're overcrowded etc or you could have no way out of it.. apart from to wait for years and apply for some area near you that you don't want to live.

EDIT - Oh, have a look around on different council websites or go to Directgov (very informative): http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/index.htm

Shelter's website is also helpful and/or CAB.

You might have to private rent for a bit, but good luck.

How would being from Germany make things difficult?

AG I read on one site that if you're from abroad, it could be a slightly different/longer process.. i'll look for it, not sure which site it was on to be honest. Like I said, not 100% sure if it's true but it must be because of the local connection to the area for example.

I don't work for the council though, so mickey, you are really best speaking to someone who knows the ins and outs.

I don't think me being from Germany is an issue as OH is british, my daughter is born here and therefore british as well and besides I was working here before getting pregnant for four years! apparently I paid more tax in UK than ever in Germany, lol and OH is living in the borough for more than ten years!

possibly if you are from abroad without british child and partner and not working, well, then I can imagine it makes a difference

so, keep fingers crossed, for you as well Tilly