This course looks at how the Children Act can be used to (directly or indirectly) provide accommodation and support services, and prevent homelessness.

You’ll consider homeless 16/17 olds in the light of the House of Lords judgments in M & G, those entitled to accommodation under the Children (Leaving Care) Act and some of the implications of relationship breakdown and child protection.

Course contains

• An outline of the private law issues following relationship breakdown and the implications for priority need.
• Powers to assist families in housing need under section 17.
• A review of Part III of the Children Act and relevant case law up to and beyond the key House of Lord’s judgments in M & G.
• Clarification of the key obligations upon children’s services and housing authorities when responding to homeless 16/17 year olds.
• New responsibilities towards young care leavers entering and leaving youth custody.
• The Children (Leaving Care) Act.

Learning outcomes

After the course you will be able to:

• Understand the division of responsibilities for homeless 16/17 year olds and the importance of protocols.
• Recognise situations where assistance may be available to homeless families.
• Appreciate the corporate parenting role towards young people in care.
• Identify creative ways of joint working in the field of homelessness and understand the statutory basis for such an approach.

Suitable for

Professionals in all sectors working with young people and/or families in housing need. You need little or no knowledge of the legislation.

Enquiry line

Please call 0344 515 1155 or email training@shelter.org.uk

In-house training

We can also run this course in-house. Find out more about in-house training