CAROLINE Lucas will open a debate in a bid to end housing benefit age discrimination against young people.

The Green Brighton Pavilion MP said the Westminster debate, which she secured, aims to give homeless young people and care leavers the same housing benefit rate.

People older than 25 who have spent three months in a hostel will be given a higher Local Housing Allowance to help find a place to live.

Those under 25 will receive the lowest rate.

Young people leaving care can claim the higher rate but then lose it on their 22nd birthday, forcing them on to the lower rate for the next three years until they turn 25.

Ms Lucas said: “The amount a young homeless person can claim in Brighton and Hove is £365 a month. It is virtually impossible for vulnerable homeless young people or care leavers to find somewhere to live in the city. Ministers must find it in their hearts and budgets to end youth homelessness.”