The number of care leavers being placed in bed and breakfast accommodation has fallen by 35% in the past two years, according to new figures.
A freedom of information request by Barnardo’s found 525 care leavers are being placed in B&Bs, down from more than 800 back in 2014.
The children’s charity launched its ‘Beyond Care’ campaign two years ago calling for councils not to place young people in unsafe or inappropriate housing.
‘It’s good that there has been progress since the launch of our campaign but over 500 care leavers in unsafe bed and breakfast accommodation across England is still far too many,’ said chief executive of Barnardo’s, Javed Khan. ‘Vulnerable young people who leave care need a suitable place to live.
‘There is a significant opportunity in the Children and Social Work Bill, currently going through Parliament, to make sure proper accommodation is provided for all care leavers.’ Barnardo’s has also developed a national framework to plan good accommodation and support for those leaving care.
