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Joint working: Somewhere to call home

6 mins read Social Care
Local authorities are now obliged to treat homeless 16 and 17-year-olds as looked-after children. Sam Thorp finds out how some councils are responding to the ruling.

Four months ago, 16-year-old James* was kicked out of his family home in Plymouth. By his own admission, James' behaviour had got him into trouble with the police and led to arguments with his mother.

James approached his local council for help and - after a spell in a bed-and-breakfast - is now living in shared accommodation with three other young people. As a homeless 16-year-old, James was deemed by Plymouth City Council as eligible for support as a looked-after child. This support has been welcomed by James. In particular, his personal adviser has provided a shoulder to lean on. "We talk about things like self-esteem and my behaviour," says James. "I think it's better to talk."

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