Centrepoint: We welcome homelessness measures
Tuesday, 14 Nov 2006 10:27
A young homeless people's charity has welcomed today's multi-million pound package aimed at giving lodging and emotional support for homeless young people.
Chief executive of Centrepoint Anthony Lawton was "delighted" with communities secretary Ruth Kelly's pledge to end the use of bed and breakfast accommodation for 16 and 17-year-olds.
"It is unacceptable that vulnerable young people are placed in unsupported and unsuitable accommodation," Mr Lawton said.
"At the same time, the commitment to invest in providing hostel accommodation suitable for the 21st century is to be welcomed."
He stressed the need to provide training and advice to vulnerable young people, adding: "Providing a roof is one thing but it is how the whole person is treated that breaks the cycle of exclusion and builds firm foundations."
Despite recent improvements, there was still "no true reflection of the scale of youth homelessness", Mr Lawton warned.
"We welcome today's measures and intend to scrutinise their implementation," he concluded.