€4.4 million ringfenced for homeless supports

A TOTAL of 12 homeless households were allocated properties by South Dublin County Council last December, while €4.4m has been ring-fenced for homeless supports this year.

Three of the allocations were to single people and nine were to families/couples, comprising a total of 15 adults and 20 children who were housed.

Those 12 households were part of the overall figure of 172 homeless households that received housing allocations from the council in 2023.

“We have significantly exceeded our target of 71 allocation to homeless households in 2022,” stated the council.

“There are currently 75 properties assigned for homeless allocation in the coming months and 21 offers have already been made.

“It should be noted that 24 offers of accommodation made to families in emergency accommodation were refused in 2023.

“Our allocation team are prioritising allocations to homeless households, including three- and four-bed homes to reduce family homelessness, and we are also progressing significant numbers of tenant in-situ acquisitions to prevent further homelessness.”

The council noted that there are four homeless family hubs in the county, three of which are at capacity.

Accommodation for single people is provided in four facilities, with Finnstown being for women, the Peter McVerry Trust facilities in Killininny and Kiltipper for men, and Dublin Simon’s Riversdale house for single older people.

“The council, in conjunction with the Dublin Region Homeless Executive will continue to explore potential options for additional family hubs and other supported accommodation in the county, said the council.

“In addition, the homeless outreach service operates all year round for rough sleepers across the county, working with other agencies, including the HSE, in identifying rough sleepers and connecting them with appropriate accommodation and support services and this service will also play a vital role in assisting homeless rough sleepers during the winter months.

“In 2024, €4,475,400 has been allocated for Homeless Services including additional staff and supports, directly and through the Dublin Region Homeless Executive.”