A new advice column put together by Kidderminster Citizens Advice Bureau

especially for Shuttle/Times & News readers

QUESTION: My son is away at university and he is arranging to move into a flat with two other friends. The landlord of the flat wants him to sign a tenancy agreement for an "assured short hold tenancy" for six months. What is this agreement, and should he sign?

Answer: It is advisable for all landlords and tenants to have a tenancy agreement as this ensures that both parties are clear about the rights and responsibilities that they have.

As the tenancy agreement is for six months the landlord cannot usually bring the tenancy to an end before that time. It also means that your son and his friends are liable to pay rent for the six months.

Most universities have a welfare department and they can look at the agreement before your son signs it. Alternatively, he can take the agreement into his local Citizens Advice Bureau.

Question: I left a job three weeks ago and my employer has not paid my wages. What can I do?

Answer: You will need to write to your former employer, telling them how much you think you are owed. Keep a copy of the letter and send it recorded delivery. If your employer does not pay then you can take the matter to an employment tribunal within three months of your employment ending.

If you have left it for more than three months you can sue your employer in the county court.

Question: I am 16 and I would like to have a tattoo. My mum says it is OK but the tattooist refused to do it as he says I have to be over 18. Is this correct?

Answer: Yes, it is. Even if your parents agree, it is against the law for someone to tattoo anyone under the age of 18.

l Information provided by the Wyre Forest Citizens Advice Bureau, 21-23 New Road, Kidderminster, Tel 01562 823953.