NCH: Wider homelessness measures needed

New measures to help young homeless people are "a good first step" but wider measures must be considered to help the vulnerable, children's charity NCH has argued.

Chief executive Clare Tickell welcomed the announcement that 16 and 17-year-olds would no longer be housed in bed and breakfast accommodation.

"There is no question that every child and young person must have a safe and stable home. The risks that homeless young people face can be unimaginable," she said.

Ms Tickell called on the government to "recognise the importance of working with families".

"NCH works with families who are at the end of their tether and whose children are about to be put into care – crisis intervention can keep these families together and turn lives around," she added:

Stopping the use of bed and breakfasts must be extended to all care leavers, she said, stressing: "Until the practice ends, vulnerable young people will remain at risk."