More people being pushed into homelessness in Waterford, warns Depaul charity
As Christmas approaches, individuals and families in Waterford are continuing to face a housing and cost of living crisis that is pushing more people into homelessness, according to homeless charity Depaul.
There are currently 275 adults accessing temporary accommodation services in the South East, with 92 of those in Waterford.
This is on top of 414 notices to quit which were issued in the first three quarters of 2023.
Depaul’s Chief Executive, David Carroll said: “The cost of living crisis is evident everyday right across Waterford and right across the South East where Depaul provides homeless accommodation to single men and women. Single people in particular are being impacted the most due to a lack of affordable homes and homeless services in the region - many are forced to sleep on the streets".
"We get phone calls every week in to our services from people who are worried about tenancies and day to day living - people are living week to week, struggling to get by. Rents are chronic and have increased right across the country. Our case workers are online everyday trying to help our service users but nothing is happening. More affordable housing options are urgently needed to meet demand”.
“Homelessness has a severe impact on a person's physical and mental health, and takes away basic human rights such as housing and health. Homelessness can be a desperately lonely and isolating place to be, especially in the run up to Christmas,” Mr Carroll said.
He said the groups they work with say they are at breaking point.
“They are feeling the pressure of being in temporary accommodation - mentally, physically and financially. People are feeling extremely overwhelmed and there is limited mental health support available. The lack of uncertainty creates stress for people in having no security long term”.
“Many of our clients present with multiple complex support needs, including any combination of physical health, mental health and addiction issues”.
“The current state of homelessness in Ireland calls for a retrospective review around policy and how well it's working. The upward trajectory can't continue and it’s critical that we see a turning point in the number of people enduring homelessness across the island of Ireland. Depaul is calling for a renewed focus on homelessness and housing as the new year approaches,” Mr Caroll said.
13,179 adults and children are already preparing to spend their first, second and third Christmas in emergency accommodation with many living in trepidation of what may come. Thousands more across Ireland will spend the festive season in hotels, tented accommodation and Direct Provision centres.
Depaul staff will be providing as much additional support and as 'homely' an environment as possible for all our service users, especially families and children, and so a donation at this time, large or small, allows us to do this, by providing a Christmas dinner or a small gift on Christmas morning. People can donate to Depaul’s urgent Christmas Appeal at www.depaul.ie or by calling 014537111.