Question to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities:

To ask the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, if he will make an estimate of the number of homeless children required to move schools as a result of moving to temporary accommodation in each of the past 12 months.

Local authorities have a statutory duty to ensure temporary accommodation is suitable for all members of an applicant’s household. Consideration of whether accommodation is suitable will require an assessment of all aspects of the accommodation in the light of the relevant needs, requirements and circumstances of the household. This includes any requirements to meet the needs of a person who is disabled or has specific medical needs.

We do not hold data relating to schools and temporary accommodation. Where possible, housing authorities should try to secure accommodation that is as close as possible to where an applicant was previously living. Where an out-of-borough placement is necessary, the authority should seek to retain established links, including education, wherever possible.

As set out in legislation and Chapter 16 of the Homelessness Code of Guidance, the Government has been clear that the long-term use of bed and breakfast (B&B) accommodation for families with children is inappropriate and unlawful. We will continue to work with local authorities to limit the use of B&B accommodation.