Removing housing benefit for under-25 could push more into homelessness

“Many young people just don't have the option of living with their parents. For them housing benefit provides a vital safety net if they face abuse at home or their family has fallen apart. It also helps many young people in low paid jobs, who face high rents.

“Our research indicates that, at a time of record youth unemployment, more under-25 are seeking help with homelessness. Housing benefit provides the breathing space many need to become independent.

“If benefits are removed without a credible alternative, we risk damaging the life chances young people and storing up problems for society in the long-run.”