TEENAGERS could be forced on to the streets to face a life of crime, prostitution and the increased threat of physical and sexual violence because of housing benefit cuts, experts warn.

Hundreds of Sussex teenagers are set to be denied housing benefit by new legislation that came into force this weekend.

Brighton Housing Trust’s Andy Winter said the move made “no sense” in economic or human terms while Hove MP Peter Kyle labelled it a “ruthless, short-sighted attack” on young people.

Figures obtained by Labour show almost 400 youngsters aged between 18 and 21 in the county without children currently claim housing benefit.

Since Saturday all new claimants in that age range will not be entitled to housing costs under Universal Credit unless they are responsible for a child, are without parents living in Great Britain or if they cannot live with their parents or are at threat of domestic violence.

Tomorrow Green housing spokesman David Gibson will present a notice of motion to full council calling on the authority to protect youngsters from the threat of eviction.

Cllr Gibson said the removal was “dangerous and grossly misguided” and he had serious concerns it would increase the risk of homelessness in the city.

He said: “We believe the council has a role to play in protecting citizens from some of the worst effects of these changes.”

Mr Kyle said: “Housing support is a lifeline for vulnerable people facing the streets and this ruthless, short-sighted attack on young people undermines the huge efforts the council is making on this issue.

“I fear the effect of this policy on those most desperately in need of our support and it’s got to be stopped before the unimaginable happens.”

Mr Winter said the policy could save just £3.3 million a year – a figure set to be dwarfed by the added cost to emergency, health and council services dealing with young street homeless.

He said: “Desperate times for young people will see them return to unsafe family situations, turn to crime and prostitution, and end up sleeping rough.

“For most 18 to 21-year-olds life is a big adventure but for those on the streets it can turn into the worst of all nightmares. They have hopes and aspirations but if you are on the streets it is a day to day struggle for survival.”

A council spokesman said: “The welfare reforms are the result of Government policy, not council policy. We are doing everything we can to offer people affected the support they need in the light of these reforms.” For housing advice contact housing.advice@brighton-hove.gov.uk or 01273 294400.