ESSEX County Council agreed today (21 June) to re-shape Housing Related Support (HRS) services for young people in Essex.

Cabinet heard that the current service is not providing the best value for money, and that re-designed support will ensure that resources go to those that most need them.

Subject to the outcome of a scrutiny process and following a competitive tendering process, new services are due to start on 1 December 2016. The focus will be on making sure there is consistent, targeted housing support for vulnerable people where it is most needed across the County.

The three priority groups identified – vulnerable teenage parents, 16-18 year olds at risk of homelessness and care leavers (19-21 years old, up to 25 in special circumstances) – will be supported to access services, advice and appropriate housing.

Those young people not in these priority groups will be re-directed to other support services the Council provides.

Cllr Dick Madden, Cabinet Member for Adults and Children, Essex County Council said; “This decision means we can improve Housing Related Support services for our most vulnerable young people.

“The new support service will work with the providers and district and borough councils to ensure young people are supported to transition and helped to lead independent lives.”