Scale of homelessness among 16 and 17-year-olds laid bare and how South Tyneside will tackle it
New measures have been approved to help prevent homelessness amongst 16 and 17-year-olds in South Tyneside and support those impacted by it – while councillors have outlined the scale of the issue in the area.
The latest meeting of South Tyne Council’s ruling Labour approved a new joint homeless protocol for those aged 16 and 17.
It outlines how the local authority will continue to work together to complete a joined-up assessment of need to assist with the housing and support of homeless 16 and 17-year-olds.
The joint assessment takes place between officers from council housing and children’s services teams, who jointly developed the protocol which sets out their respective statutory duties.
The protocol notes how the council departments are supported by other agencies to provide a range of services to young people in the borough who are either at risk of, or have become homeless.
Cllr Jane Carter, lead member for housing and community safety, speaking at the cabinet meeting, said to draw up the document the local authority has consulted their council of care leavers.
The deputy council leader added: “We will continue to engage with the [care leavers] council and other young service users to ensure our services are meeting their needs.
“This protocol clearly sets out what any young person in South Tyneside facing homelessness can expect in terms of advice and support and highlights our commitment as a whole council approach to supporting our young people when they need it most.”
A report from officers notes the protocol will “provide a clearer process and guidance for the identification and assessment of a young person’s housing and support needs.”
It will also “ensure that homeless young people receive a seamless service from the first point of contact”.
Councillor Ruth Berkley, cabinet member for adults, health and independence, said: “I am delighted that we have listened to lived experience in developing this for what is a very vulnerable cohort of young people in our borough.”
Councillor Margaret Meling, cabinet member for economic growth and transport, asked if the local authority has an idea of the “scale of the issue” of homelessness among 16 and 17-year-olds in South Tyneside.
Cllr Carter said she could not say the “exact number” but noted “it is not a massive amount”.
The meeting heard the protocol will work in tandem with a newly established young persons homelessness board.
This will monitor data and trends, highlight challenges and support working together across the council to “tackle homelessness for young people through prevention and support”.
The council’s previous joint protocol was published prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.