Challenge two: Homelessness law
You work for a local authority and have obligations to some homeless people under the Housing Act 1996. However, those obligations are hedged by requiring that you are satisfied that a homeless person has priority need. This means a single person, for instance, must generally also be considered “vulnerable” - yet vulnerability is a question about which the highest courts have struggled. Can you make sense of it? You will be given access to data and information about the relevant areas of the law and be tasked with creating a petition to demand change. You will be guided by the Law School’s expert in housing law, who will offer some initial advice.
- WatchThis challenge is introduced by Professor David Cowan, an expert from the University of Bristol Law School who teaches, researches and practices in all areas of housing, land and homelessness law. In his video he talks about what he was like as a student, what it was that sparked his passion for social justice - and set the scene for your challenge.
- ReadRead the full brief. Make sure you understand what's being asked of you - and don't deviate from the information provided. The key thing to remember is that you will be judged on your ability to read, digest and effectively summarise what you have learnt.
- CreateCreate your challenge piece. In this instance it is a petition. You will need to understand how to use what you have learnt to create a petition that summarises an argument for why things need to change. Make sure you follow the guidance if you want a successful outcome for the case you are putting forward.
- Ask JoFor each day of the challenge you can ask Jo a question between 11-12 if you need to clarify anything or simply want some advice. Send an email to law-employability@bristol.ac.uk.
Recommended timings
- Day one: Simply read through all materials carefully before starting the challenge. Make sure you take particular note of any guidance/tips outlining what you should and shouldn't be focusing on.
- Day two: Read through the materials again, this time taking notes based on 1) the problem 2) the evidence 3) your top three messages and 4) your one call to action.
- Day three: Create your rough draft. Remember the final output is max 400 words - don't dwell on anything that doesn't help you achieve the above.
- Day four: Finalise/polish your submission - and don't forget to send it in!