Under 16's and Homelessness
Homelessness can affect anyone at any time, and this includes young people. Many reasons could force a young person to feel that they have no alternative than to runaway from their home. This may be due to :
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Arguments with parents / carers
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Experiencing or witnessing domestic violence
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Emotional abuse
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Pregnancy
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Physical or Sexual Abuse
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Running away from Care
Childline has recently merged with the National Society for the Protection from Cruelty to Children. Their website Childline| provides helpful advice. Their telephone number is 0800 1111.
Connexions can provide support by a range of contacts including, telephoning an advisor on freefone 080 800 13219, speaking to an advisor on line, and e:mailing. Their website is http://www.connexions-direct.com|
Advice for Young People
Young people may leave home or find themselves homeless for a variety of reasons. It can be difficult for them to find accommodation and it can be hard to keep a tenancy going due to the expense of keeping a home and having to look after themselves.
Shelter provides very useful and practical advice for young people who may find that they have no home, or unable to return home. Their website provides young persons advice|, or you can phone them for urgent advice on 0808 800 4444 8am until midnight 7 days a week.
If you need any advice regarding your situation please contact the Housing Options service at the Civic Centre on telephone 0191 433 2636 or by e:mail housingadvice@gateshead.gov.uk|.