Notifying schools and health services
If you move into temporary accommodation and have children living with you, we may need to let certain services know about your change in circumstances.
From 1 September 2026, councils have a legal duty to notify a child's school, GP practice and, where appropriate, their health visiting service when a family with children is placed in temporary accommodation.
Why do we share this information?
Moving into temporary accommodation can be a difficult and unsettling time for families.
Sharing this information helps education and health professionals understand what is happening and identify whether any additional support may be needed for you and your family.
The aim is to make sure children and families receive the right support at the right time and that important services are aware when a family's housing situation changes.
What information will be shared?
We will only share the information needed to fulfil our legal responsibilities. This will usually include details that allow the relevant school, GP practice or health service to identify the child and understand that the family has moved into temporary accommodation.
Will this affect my child's school place or GP registration?
No. The notification does not affect your child's school place, GP registration, access to healthcare, or entitlement to any services. It is simply a way of making sure that the professionals supporting your child are aware of your family's circumstances and can offer help if it is needed.
How will I know information is being shared?
We will explain the notification process to you when you move into temporary accommodation and provide information about how your personal data will be used and shared.
Any information shared will be handled in line with data protection legislation and our privacy requirements.
Our commitment to families
We understand that homelessness and temporary accommodation can have a significant impact on children and families. By working closely with schools, health services and other partners, we want to help minimise disruption, support children's wellbeing, and help them continue to thrive during what can be a challenging period.
Our aim is simple - to ensure that children and families experiencing homelessness receive the support they need, when they need it.