Young People are better off living at home or within their family network, if it is safe for them to do so. This protocol affects those young people aged 16 and 17 who present or appear to be homeless and what agencies will do to assess their needs and support them.
Whilst the section 20 Children Act 1989 duty takes precedence, Local Housing Authority also have duties towards young people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. Duties owed by each agency will depend on a range of factors, including:
- Which service the young person initially seeks help from.
- The outcomes of any assessments and enquiries.
- The wishes and feelings of the young person and their family.
It is therefore essential that Children’s Services and Local Housing Authorities work together to plan and provide services that are centred on young people and their families and prevent young people from being passed back and forth between services. [1]
This protocol provides a pathway for homeless 16- and 17-year-olds to provide a consistent response with clear lines of accountability. There is also a process for conflict resolution so that when this occurs, this will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis and in a way that does not undermine the relationships the Intensive Prevention Service provides at a local level.
This protocol has been developed in compliance with legislation and statutory guidance and has been adopted as a working document by nine signatories, to guide their activities when undertaking work with our vulnerable children.
[1] Provision of accommodation for 16- and 17-year-olds who may be homeless and/or require accommodation
