The latest release from the Department of Housing shows the number of children living in homeless accommodation in September was 3,873
Dublin, 31 October 2019: The latest release from the Department of Housing shows the number of children living in homeless accommodation in September was 3,873, an increase of 25 children compared to figures for August. Since July, almost 200 more children have become homeless. This is a clear indictment of the failure of the government to prevent children becoming homeless.
Suzanne Connolly, Barnardos CEO said: “Children across the country are excitedly getting ready to celebrate Hallowe’en with their friends. But for 3,873 children living in emergency accommodation they will have little opportunity to join in the fun. These children will not be enjoying their mid-term break at home, but will be passing the time in unsuitable accommodation. There will be no ‘trick or treating’, no neighbours knocking at the door – another denial of a positive childhood community experience.
“Every month Barnardos, along with most people in Irish society, are disheartened and dismayed at the clear lack of progress in tackling the housing and homeless crisis. We work with many families who are living in emergency accommodation. For some of these families, providing intensive family support is critical in terms helping parents and their children manage this traumatic experience. For others we provide practical assistance, such as somewhere to make phone calls or helping to look for private rented accommodation. While delivering on social housing output is key, the government must adequately resource other services in the community, such as Barnardos, that can support families in these circumstances”.
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Barnardos Press Office: 01 7080442 / 086 0445966Rachel Boyce; 01 7080443
Trudy McCarthy; 01 7080423