A local authority in the North West was not told when several London councils sent vulnerable homeless families to live in temporary accommodation in its area.
Halton Council says it is now working with the families and the London boroughs on a relocation plan for those who want to return to the capital, while alternative measures are being arranged for those who wish to remain in the area.
The families included 24 adults and 23 children who were sent to live at Columba Hall, Widnes, last year.
Halton Council only became aware after a safeguarding issue was reported.
The local authority said it then provided support services for the families.
Columba Hall has 22 apartments and is leased by community interest company Elemel, which provides accommodation for vulnerable people.
A council spokeswoman said: 'The clients were placed in Columba Hall via the London boroughs late last year and, when it was brought to our attention, local service support was put in place.
'Halton is currently working with the clients and the London boroughs to ensure a full support relocation plan is put in place for those residents who wish to return.'
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