Social Services might help

> Any person who is homeless or in danger of becoming homeless can ask for help from the Local Social Services Department, as they have duties towards children and young people to ensure their safety and development.
> These duties or responsibilities are contained in a law called the Children Act 1989.
> Under the Children Act any young person under 18 years old who is homeless can ask for help and support from their local social services.
> If you’re homeless you maybe at risk in a number of ways, in particular your health and development maybe likely to be affected by not having a place to live.
> If you are homeless then you are entitled to request an assessment as a ‘child in need’. This means that social services will look at what is happening to you and at services that could be helpful to you, making arrangements to meet your needs.
> The Children Act is clear that a ‘child in need’ may be entitled to accommodation and services appropriate to the young person’s needs.

Getting Help From Social Services – Steps to Take

> Before you approach social services try to get help from an Advice Worker or someone who can speak on your behalf
> Ask to speak to the Child Care Duty Officer. You are asking for an interview and an assessment as a ‘child in need’ under section 2(3) of Children Act 1989 because you are homeless.
> Explain your situation as clearly and in as much detail as you can. You have a right to be heard and to be listened to.
> It may be helpful to write down important points beforehand. Your request for an interview and assessment may not take place straight away. Social services should agree that you have a right to be assessed and make an appointment within the next few days.
> Social services should accept that you may need somewhere to stay immediately and they should assist you with this until you can be assessed.

Contact:
Surrey Social Services www.surreycc.gov.uk

 

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