Third Of Homeless Young Offenders 'In Unsafe Accommodation'

One in three homeless 16- and 17-year-olds who are in contact with youth offending teams (YOTs) are being placed in unsafe or unsuitable accommodation. A report by the Probation Inspectorate flagged up particular concerns about children sharing hostels or bed and breakfast accommodation with adult strangers. Inspectors found that while a minority of young people received excellent support, too many had been given a roof over their heads with little other than a few hours a week support from visiting professionals. The report reveals that the issue was not down to a lack of funding, rather a result of poor or incomplete assessments, a lack of joined-up working or recognition of children's wider needs. There was also a tendency to place children as though they were adults. Read more on the CYPN website.

Homeless Young Offenders' Housing Criticised By Report

A third of homeless 16 and 17-year-old offenders in England and Wales are being placed in unsafe or unsuitable accommodation, a report has found. The report outlines a number of failings including poor support and a lack of appropriate housing. The government said children's services had to protect this group by law. The report was produced from the joint findings of HM Inspectorate of Probation and the Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales. Local authorities are responsible for providing accommodation for homeless young people of that age, and the report said many had already been in the care system. Read more on the BBC website.