Homeless 16 and 17 year olds protocol

Date: March 2026

1.1 This protocol sets out the referral procedure and responsibilities in relation to homeless 16 and 17 year olds. The purpose is to ensure the continued close working relationship between The Housing Advice Team, The Children’s Hub, The Leaving Care Team and the Through Care Team.This procedure ensures that Hartlepool Borough Council delivers its legislative responsibilities under the Children Act (1989) and (2004), the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act (2026) the Housing Act (1996) and The Homelessness Act (2002) and The Homeless Reduction Act 2017 when meeting the needs of children and young people in Hartlepool.

1.2 This protocol aims to ensure that young people are at the centre of and fully involved in the process and are not passed from one team to another. This procedure also ensures that Hartlepool Borough Council staff work together collaboratively, with shared responsibility and in the best interests of the young person.   

1.3 When a 16–17-year-old is accommodated under Section 20, the Local Authority accepts full corporate parenting responsibilities including stability, advocacy, and best outcomes into adulthood.