SEVENTY young people who have left care in Thurrock are now living in houses of multiple occupation (HMOs), new figures have revealed.

Data set to be discussed by Thurrock Council's Corporate Parenting Committee shows 70 care leavers were living in HMOs as of July 31, while 161 had secured their own tenancies and 17 remained with former foster carers through the Staying Put scheme.

The figures come as the council warns a shortage of available housing is limiting accommodation options for care leavers, prompting it to consider a range of alternatives including private rented homes, council tenancies and HMOs.

As of August 18, the authority was supporting 267 care leavers aged between 16 and 25, all of whom have previously been in care.

Council officers acknowledged some young people have struggled to sustain their accommodation, with targeted support being provided to help them maintain stable housing and live independently.

Despite mounting housing pressures, the report highlights positive outcomes, noting no care leavers were recorded as being at risk of homelessness.

The council's Aftercare Service continues to support young people as they transition into adulthood, helping them access housing, education, training and employment opportunities.

The report also shows the number of children currently in care has increased slightly, rising from 260 in the previous quarter to 265 by August 18.

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Councillors are due to consider the latest figures when the Corporate Parenting Committee meets next Thursday (3 September).