Councils putting teenagers at risk by failing to assess housing needs

Local authorities across England are failing to properly house 16 and 17-year-olds, a new report has claimed. Charity Homeless Link's study - 'No Excuses' - reveals 161 English councils were collectively approached an estimated 14,000 times in 2012/13 by 16 and 17-year-olds who needed help with housing. And, contrary to statutory guidance, of those provided with accommodation, 8% were housed in B&Bs and 9% in shared accommodation with adults. According to the report, many councils also appear not to be meeting their legal obligations towards teenagers. The 2009 House of Lords Southwark ruling obliges council children’s services to assess the needs of homeless 16 and 17-year-olds to ensure they get accommodation and support if they need it.