Dr. Tricia Keilthy:

The Deputy's questions underline why we are calling for a child- and family-specific homelessness strategy. We need to recognise the unique vulnerability and needs of children and ensure that their rights and well-being are prioritised. The youth homelessness strategy could form a blueprint for a child and family homelessness strategy. I would focus on three pillars, which are prevention, supports while in homeless accommodation, and support for exiting from homelessness. The tenant in situ scheme is important. We must ensure we are funding prevention effectively and giving children access to a child and family support worker when they are in homeless accommodation. We must also ensure we are building social and affordable housing in line with the target of 20%, as recommended by the Housing Commission.

On the question of developing policy and legislation around the rights of children, one thing our office is doing is pushing for the full and direct incorporation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child into domestic law. That would mean that at the early stages of developing policy and legislation, we ensure it is rights-compliant and give those obligations, for which we have signed up, real force. It is the most significant thing we can do for children's rights. That is the kind of radical change we need if we are going to address the housing crisis that is affecting children and families right now.