Homeless Children: Problems and Needs. Edited by Panos Vostanis & Stuart Cumella. London and Philadelphia: Jessica Kingsley Publications. 1999. 200 pp. £15.95. ISBN 1-85302-595

This excellent short text highlights the extent to which children and young people are disadvantaged by homelessness. The number of families in temporary accommodation and homeless centres is estimated to include 170 000 children and 7000 adolescents. Consideration is given to how current systems should attempt to address the special needs of these homeless young people and their families.

Through a critical evaluation of recent research the authors present a comprehensive review of the situation of homeless children and their families. Readers from all backgrounds will find this book of benefit as it reflects on the appropriateness of provision from different agencies, including education, health, housing, voluntary and social work services.

By considering the complex pathways to homelessness, the association with domestic violence and marital breakdown emerges. The assertion that homelessness

may represent an extreme form of adaptive problem-solving for some families highlights that despite the ‘zero tolerance’ to violence advocated by the UK Government, becoming homeless may still be the only escape from intolerable circumstances for some families. Necessary changes to UK Government policy to prevent homelessness as a result of domestic violence are discussed.

The increased risk of health problems accompanying homelessness, including a disturbance in psychological development and the increased prevalence of mental health problems, is discussed. Preventative needs-based approaches are advocated, as are interventions that support resilience in the child or parent and rupture the cycle of adversity.

In adolescents numerous changes in the provision of care and the prevalence of domestic violence are associated with being homeless. The over representation of statutory involvement with this group emphasises that in spite of service intervention a large number of young people do not gain the skills and the support necessary for independent living.

By documenting the intractable relationship between homelessness and secondary disadvantage, the book highlights the urgent need for effective interagency collaboration to improve access to appropriate services and achieve an improved outcome for this vulnerable group of young people and their families.