Why are intentionally homeless families referred to social services?
If a family with children under the age of 18 is found to be intentionally homeless, the council’s housing department must seek the family’s consent to inform social services of the essential facts of their case. Even if the applicant withholds consent, information may be disclosed where the authority has reason to believe that a child is at risk of significant harm. The housing department and social services may not necessarily be part of the same authority. Advisers need to check the position in their area. The aim of referring families is that social services can then make any necessary arrangements to protect the children. This may include, for example: • asking the housing department to provide advice and assistance • helping the family to obtain accommodation (eg by providing temporary accommodation or help with a deposit).
