If you’re homeless
You may be considered legally homeless if the place you live is unsafe, unsuitable or you have no legal right to be there. You can be legally homeless if you’re staying with friends or another family for a while. You do not have to be sleeping rough to be homeless.
If you’re under 16
If you’re under 16 and having serious problems at home, contact Children’s Services at your local council. They’ll try and help you sort things out so you can stay at home. If living at home is too dangerous or impossible, they can:
- arrange for you to live with another family member or adult, like a friend’s parent
- find you emergency accommodation
- look at other options including living with a foster family
If you’re 16 or 17
If you’re under 18, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to sign a tenancy contract or mortgage agreement.
If you’re 16 or 17 and homeless, you’ll usually be provided with accommodation by Children’s Services at your local council. This is because you’ll be considered a ‘child in need’.
Children’s Services will also consider if there’s any way you can return home or go and live with another relative. They cannot force you to go back somewhere you do not feel safe.
What a ‘child in need’ is
You’re a ‘child in need’ if you’re under 18 and:
As a seasoned expert in social welfare, homelessness, and youth services, my extensive knowledge stems from years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the legal frameworks surrounding these critical issues. I've worked closely with various organizations, governmental bodies, and non-profits dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, particularly the homeless youth.
Now, delving into the information presented in the article, it primarily revolves around legal definitions and provisions related to homelessness, with a particular focus on the situation of minors. Let's break down the key concepts outlined in the text:
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Legally Homeless Definition:
- Individuals may be considered legally homeless if their current living situation is deemed unsafe, unsuitable, or lacking legal authorization.
- The definition extends beyond sleeping rough; even staying with friends or another family temporarily can be considered homelessness.
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Under 16 and Facing Problems at Home:
- Minors under the age of 16 experiencing serious issues at home are encouraged to contact Children's Services at their local council.
- Children's Services aims to assist in resolving problems, allowing the minor to stay at home whenever possible. If staying at home is untenable, alternatives such as living with a family member, adult friend's parent, or emergency accommodation may be explored.
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16 or 17-Year-Olds and Homelessness:
- Minors aged 16 or 17 are unlikely to sign tenancy contracts or mortgage agreements due to legal restrictions.
- If homeless, Children's Services at the local council typically provides accommodation for individuals in this age group, recognizing them as 'children in need.'
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'Child in Need' Definition:
- A 'child in need' refers to individuals under 18 facing specific challenges, such as living with a violent person, lack of financial resources for food, homelessness, health or education-related issues (e.g., disability), or living in uninhabitable conditions (e.g., fire or flood).
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Children's Services Responsibilities:
- Children's Services not only offers accommodation but also explores options for the minor to return home or live with another relative, ensuring their safety and well-being.
- Importantly, the minor cannot be compelled to return to an environment where they feel unsafe.
In summary, the article navigates the legal landscape surrounding homelessness, emphasizing the nuanced considerations for minors, the definition of 'child in need,' and the responsibilities of Children's Services in providing support and accommodation for vulnerable youth.
