Classroom lessons may help prevent future homelessness

Almost 4,000 teenagers contact their local authority every year looking for accommodation after leaving home.

The issue has resulted in hundreds of 16 and 17-year-olds classifying themselves as homeless.

Conference delegates believe lessons in the classroom could help prepare pupils for life in the outside world.

The event will also look at ways of developing youth advice projects and family mediation.

Hilary Hall, a teacher from East Lothian's Housing Education Project, said schools were now beginning to recognise that housing issues were an important part of education.

Engaging youngsters

She said: "Most young people don't know what they're in for when they leave home for the first time.

"Discussing the issues in the classroom and providing information on where to get help and support can help them prepare for the move and avoid housing crisis."

Young 'peer educators' from Linkliving's Smart Move group in Falkirk will also attend the meeting to speak about how they engage with youngsters on issues like homelessness.

Matt Elton, head of Youth Unit, Scottish Council for Single Homeless, said: "It's vital that we do all we can and as early as we can to let young people know about the risks of housing crisis and how to avoid them.

"When young people leave in a hurry and unprepared, things can quickly spiral out of control and lead to homelessness.