Public reports pack PDF 3 MB - Blaby District Council

Page 31
2. Introduction and methodology
Introduction
In May 2009 a Law Lords judgement considered how local authorities support
homeless 16 and 17 year olds (G v Southwark). The case tested the circumstances
under which local authorities should provide accommodation for this age group and the legislation that should apply.
The recommendations that came out of the judgement required Councils and social services departments to develop joint working
arrangements to clarify respective roles and responsibilities in their duties towards young people.
A Leicestershire Wide Multi Agency Protocol to assist homeless/potentially homeless 16 and 17 year olds was developed as a
result of this judgement.
Scrutiny was asked by Blaby’s Housing & Community Services Group Manager to review both the protocol and the working
relationship between Leicestershire County Council’s Social Services and Blaby Housing Options team, as the Manager had
concerns
Methodology
The group met on six occasions and took evidence from officers and partners including Leicestershire County Council’s Children
and Young Peoples Service and The Bridge, a single access service at Loughborough. Desk top research was carried out, which
looked at the national and local picture and included a review of best practice in other authorities.
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