The Homelessness Act 1977 is a significant piece of legislation in the United Kingdom aimed at addressing homelessness. It established the legal framework for local authorities to assess and assist individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. The Act requires councils to provide support and accommodation to those in need, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive necessary help. This Act also introduced the concept of "priority need," which identifies specific groups, such as families with children and individuals with disabilities, who are given precedence for housing assistance. By recognizing these groups, the Homelessness Act 1977 aimed to create a more structured approach to tackling homelessness across the country.