A pilot scheme tackling homelessness among young people in Dundee has been extended.
The work of the Youth Housing Options service is to carry on for another year after it cut the number of homeless young people in the city by 14% in 2011-12.
Housing convener John Alexander said: “During the first pilot stage we worked closely with Action for Children to help find accommodation for 16 and 17-year-olds, but as well as extending the length of the pilot we are also going to widen its remit to include people up to 21 years old.
“Carrying out a Youth Housing Options interview at an early stage has reduced the number of young people coming to us saying they are homeless and created better outcomes for them.
“Homelessness is damaging to young people’s personal, social and economic development and wellbeing, and if at all possible it should be prevented.
“Where it is safe to do so young people will be supported to remain at home or to leave in a planned and supported way.
“With the welfare reforms likely to cause an increase in referrals, it is incredibly important that we are working with young people to address any issues that arise.”
The scheme offers advice and help to young people about their housing options so they can make informed choices. It provides information that allows young people to make decisions about their housing options.
The scheme also increases understanding about the practical skills and knowledge needed to sustain a tenancy along with an understanding of the consequences of anti-social behaviour.
The service is based in the east district housing office, but interviews can be carried out at other facilities across the city depending on circumstances.
Since the second year of the pilot started at the beginning of February, 55 young people have been seen by the Youth Options scheme, only seven of whom subsequently registered as homeless.