It maybe decided that you can remain or return to your family. We know how difficult it is to live by yourself when you are 16 or 17 so our priority will always be to help you to live with your family wherever possible and if it is safe for you do so. We have specially trained people who can help support you and your family with this.

If the assessment finds that going back home is not achievable at this time and your Social Worker finds you to be a Child in Need, (this includes needing accommodation) you have several options about how to get help.

You can choose the option that is best for you:

  1. You can choose to be a Cared for Child. This means Children’s Services will care for you and provide you with accommodation.
  2. You can choose to be supported by Children’s Services as a Child in Need. You will still be able to make a homeless application to the Housing Solutions Team. Children’s Services and Housing Solution Team will work together to make sure you have accommodation and the help and support you need.
  3. You can decline help and support from Children’s Services and make a homeless application to the Housing Solutions Team where they will try to prevent your homelessness and help you to find accommodation.

Help to make a choice

It is very important that you really understand each option as this will affect the help and support you are entitled to after you turn 18. There is lot for you to think about.

In addition to having your social worker we will make sure that you have an independent person to talk to who can support you to understand what your rights are and what the different options mean for you now and in the future.