Local approaches to youth homelessness prevention

Homelessness in England is on the rise, and young people are particularly at risk. Official numbers are likely to be the tip of the iceberg, as many young homeless people are ‘hidden’ from official statistics. The Homelessness Reduction Act (HRA) represented a landmark change to the legislation, advancing a much-needed preventative approach to homelessness.

A year on from the introduction of the HRA, the panel took stock of what impact the legislation has had and assessed how local authorities are responding to youth homelessness. The panel discussed the findings of Reform's recent publication on this issue, and brought together an audience of frontline practitioners, policymakers from local and central government, parliamentarians and third sector representatives.

The event consisted of a panel discussion with Q&A and bring together 50 attendees.

Keynote speaker: Bob Blackman MP

Panelists:

• Chair: Hannah Gousy, Policy and Public Affairs Manager, Crisis
• Dr Luke Heselwood, Senior Researcher, Reform 
• Jill Boak, Young Peoples Pathway Manager, North Yorkshire County Council
• Aileen Murphie, Director of MHCLG & Local Government Value for Money, The National Audit Office

You can find footage of the event here: