CYP Now - BENEFITS: Where's my safety net?

Youth workers of all types regularly come into contact with a benefits system that appears to discriminate against the young. PJ White looks at how access to financial support affects young people's development

Then Jim started pinching money from his mother's purse. Ultimatum followed ultimatum, and after an almighty row, he left and didn't go back.

At first he stayed with various mates. When that option ran out, he turned up at a local advice centre, asking for help.

There were efforts to reconcile Jim with his family because under-18s are regarded as the responsibility of the parents. But it was established that Jim and his family were estranged.

The local authority has a duty to house vulnerable 16 and 17-year-olds.

So he found his current home, a bed and breakfast hostel, and joined the world of welfare benefits.

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