MPs slam councils over lack of help

Statutory definitions of homelessness are being inconsistently and
carelessly applied, with councils appearing to be looking for
reasons to refuse help, MPs warned last week.

It is “extraordinary” that councils interpret homelessness so
differently, says a report by the Office of the Deputy Prime
Minister select committee.

“There are suspicions that ‘gate-keeping’ is getting tougher to
keep the number of acceptances down because authorities cannot cope
with demand,” it says.

The report also urges clearer guidance on social services taking
into care the children of intentionally homeless families and the
definition of vulnerable persons in relation to homelessness.