Clarification will be sought as to whether the young person will face immediate homelessness and if the young person has somewhere to stay where they feel safe.
If it is established that the young person can return home, consideration should be given to any ongoing support needs that the young person and their parents/family may need, and how these will be met.
Discussion with the young person’s parents/carers is fundamental in understanding their wider environment and to negotiate their return home. If it cannot be established whether the young person can return home safely then Step 5 should be followed.
Understanding the young person’s views and desired outcomes will be fundamental in providing successful interventions. For example, is it about seeking a tenancy and support to manage that; is it about support to enable them to return home; is it about living in supported accommodation, or is it something else? Having open and honest conversations with the young person about options and solutions as well as being realistic about their level of choice, will be vital to achieving those outcomes.
If the first approached agency has reason to believe that the young person will approach another agency or organisation, they should update them as necessary. Partner agencies/organisation should accept and support the findings of the first approached agency, unless there is good reason not to do so.
The young person should be made aware of their rights and options and the officer dealing with the homeless approach should ensure that the young person has seen the Young Person’s information leaflet.
