The Board will receive a presentation on the thoughts and reflections gathered from conversations with young people on this issue.
Minutes:
The Director of Housing and Communities introduced this item and explained what had been happening in terms of the journey that the service had been in housing provision for Care Experienced Young People and a look forward into the future. The Housing Options Manager gave a presentation, a copy of which had been circulated and a copy of which appear as Appendix B to these minutes in the Minute Book. The presentation outlined the progress which had been made since the last update to the Board in the following areas:
· Improve Practice & Assessment
· Data & Insight
· Consultation, Engagement and Learning
· Embed early intervention and co-operative action across services
· Effective housing assessment, suitable provision and choice
The Board was advised of the work which had taken place in these areas and what had been achieved to date. The presentation also highlighted feedback from a MHCLG focussed visit which took place in January 2025, work with different partners, including Homewards and the next steps for the future.
Out of area placements – it was noted that the situation was more difficult for those placed in different areas. Often CEYPs wanted to stay in the area in which they were currently living rather than moving to the BCP area. They were able to make a homelessness application in the area in which they were living but it was hoped that there could be some reciprocal arrangements put in place with other local authorities. It was noted that those living out of the area would often be more susceptible to homelessness. In order to target this there was currently a pilot in progress working with CEYP at an earlier age to put measures in place to support them to be able to avoid homelessness once they reach 18.
It was noted that there were approximately 4 CEYP each month presenting as homeless. It was noted that these were generally completely unexpected. During planning meetings each month any CEYP identified being at risk of homelessness were looked into and issues addressed.
In response to a query, it was explained that there were different types of Gold Band, including move-on Gold Band and Care Experienced Gold Band. Sometimes properties were allocated as having greater preference for care experienced young people. 1 in five properties were allocated from about 80 properties which became available across a whole year.
The number of young people presenting as homeless was concerning. It was noted that those identified as having a risk of homelessness, such as rent areas, or a family breakdown were addressed through plans put in place. However, it would be good to find ways to ensure that young people know where to go for advice and to do this in a timely way. There is a website being created at the moment to address CEYP access to young people. It was reported that young people had reported that it was difficult for CEYP to access the service.
The Board questioned why it was not possible for all CEYP to be placed into the Gold Band and it was explained that there were only about 80 one bed properties available across the area. If all CEYP were allocated Gold Band the most vulnerable people would not be able to access these properties as others would access the properties above them.