For the 16 and 17-year-olds who are homeless, there are legislations to support them and it could make potential changes to their life, however, the research by the Just for Kids Law indicated that the authorities do not provide adequate information to help the youths making informed decisions.
Approximately 2,500 of them are being accommodated every year and some 16- and 17-year-olds choose not to enter care even with full information. Yet, there are youths who are not informed about the options and it could lead to consequences in the future. Also, the majority of the young people were rejected to be accommodated without any further judicial actions and they were considered as "looked-after children".
Voluntary sector organisations should support the 16- and 17-year-olds by cooperating with the local authorities, provide the needed information and make sure that they are housed. And the report provides the right information to help and educate the professionals in order to support the homeless young people. To receive the support, the young people need to take the "child in need" assessment and it is likely to be upsetting and disturbing for them. Therefore, the professionals should question themselves if they are in the best position to support the young people and it is crucial that they know the rights the young people are entitled to.
Main topics covered in the report:
- The legal entitlements of 16- and 17-year-olds who become homeless and of care leavers, and how this translates to the different roles and responsibilities of children’s services and housing services.
- Advice on supporting young people to approach their local authority.
- Practical advice on supporting young people and facilitating informed decision making, in a trauma-informed way.
- Supporting young people with specific circumstances, such as young people leaving institutions, young people with insecure immigration status and young people with children.
- Information on where to get further support and resources