New arrangements to support young homeless people in Lancashire will be launched at an event in Leyland this week.

A joint protocol, which will be adopted at the event at the Civic Centre on Friday, 24 February, outlines the commitments and responsibilities expected of all professionals working with young people. It has been jointly agreed by Lancashire County Council and the 12 district council partners.

The new arrangements recognise that it isn't always possible for young people to live with their families. In these situations, a key aim is to ensure that all 16 and 17 year-olds who need accommodation are dealt with swiftly and consistently across the county. To support this all professionals must be up-to-date with the latest legislation and best placed to ensure that individuals receive the best information and support.

The protocol will ensure that:
• Early help and support is provided to help young people to stay with, or be safely reunited with, their families
• Young people who are homeless, or are at risk of becoming homeless, are properly safeguarded
• Young people receive the right help at the right time
• A practical system is established to find young people appropriate safe and secure accommodation
• Young people have clear and consistent routes to get housing and support

County Councillor Matthew Tomlinson, cabinet member for children, young people and schools, said: "We all know that young people are usually best placed living with their families. Sadly though, sometimes this just isn't possible for many different reasons.

"We want to make sure that all young people who find themselves in this situation get accurate advice as quickly as possible, no matter where they live, or who they go to for help.

"This isn't just about ensuring that young people in this situation have a roof over their head. We will always work hard to make sure that they have the most appropriate accommodation for their circumstances.

"All of the organisations involved have committed to ensuring that a young person's needs should be taken into account, including education, financial support and maintaining contact with family and friends, if this is what the young person wants. Crucially, we will ensure that they have someone they can trust to help them understand the system. They are not on their own."