Benefits for teenagers who are 16 or 17

Where to go for more help
This factsheet gives an outline of the different benefits you may be able to claim, but they are rather complicated. If you want more information you can go to one of the organisations listed below for help.

• Citizens Advice Bureau - will be able to help with advice about benefits. Look in your phone book for the address of your local office.
• Maternity Alliance - you can order other leaflets on maternity rights and benefits, such as Pregnant at Work, Money for Mothers and Babies, and Single Parent. If you want more specific information you can write to them with details of your circumstances and they will write back. Or, call their 24 hour Information Line on 020 7588 8582.
• Shelter - for help with housing problems telephone the free 24 hour housing advice line on 0808 800 4444. For a free copy of Shelter's 'Wise Up' Housing Guide for people aged 16-25, telephone 020 7505 4699 for advice on finding somewhere to live, paying rent and getting benefits.
• Social Services - if you are under 16 and not living with your parents they are responsible for you. Look in your phone book for their address.
• The Centre for Economic and Social Inclusion, PO Box 30069, 89 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7WR. Telephone: 020 7582 7221.