Young people and care leavers

This section looks at the housing options and rights of young people and care leavers. It covers the duties of local authorities under the homelessness legislation and the Children (Scotland) Act 1995, and other issues concerning young people's access to housing.

The Children (Scotland) Act

Local authorities have duties and powers to provide services, including accommodation, under the Children (Scotland) Act 1995. The Act's obligations are placed on the local authority as a corporate body. 

Children (Scotland) Act payments

Social work departments have duties and powers under the Children (Scotland) Act 1995 to provide children in need and care leavers with assistance to pay for accommodation. 

Challenging Children (Scotland) Act decisions

There are a number of ways to challenge any assessment or decision made by a local authority under the Children (Scotland) Act 1995. 

Housing Benefit for young people

Housing Benefit is a means-tested benefit paid to help claimants meet the cost of renting accommodation. 

Finding accommodation

This section looks at accommodation options available outside the private rented sector. 

Tenancies and young people under 18 years old

This section explains the legal position of young people under the age of 18 regarding holding a tenancy.