Charity: Surge in youth homelessness

Long-term homelessness among young people in Cork has increased four-fold since 2008 and among women it has increased three-fold, according to the latest annual report from the Cork Simon.

The homeless charity supported 621 people in 2011. Of those, 19% were women and 19% were under 26 years of age.

Cork Simon said that long-term homelessness had been increasing steadily since 2008. At that point there were 42 people. In 2011 there were 76.

“Too many people are stuck in emergency accommodation for over six months [the definition the Government gives for long-term homelessness] because they have no other option,” said Dermot Kavanagh, chief executive.

However, he said that despite the economic conditions, fewer people than ever slept rough in 2011.

The charity’s annual report recorded that 38 people were identified as sleeping rough on at least one night last year, a fall of 27% on the previous year and a dramatic drop since 2008 when the total was 352.

“This progress has been achieved by using a proactive model of outreach, by effective partnership and by ensuring there are sufficient beds in place for all people who are homeless,” said Mr Kavanagh.

Nonetheless, the homeless charity still worked with 154 people who had never needed its help before.

Mr Kavanagh also pointed out that since 2008:

* The number of women using its emergency shelter has increased by 63%;

* The number of long-term homeless women has increased threefold;

* The number of younger people — aged 18-26 — who are long-term homeless has increased four-fold.

A total of 411 people stayed in the charity’s 44-bed emergency shelter, which was full every night.

Of those, 37% stayed for the first time, 34% were under 26 years of age, 49% stayed for up to seven days, 67% stayed for up to 30 days, and 18% were long-term homeless.

Of the 38 people recorded sleeping rough on at least one night in 2011, 21% were women and 24% were under 26 years of age.

Cork Simon has established a new strategic plan for the next three years. It has 20 goals, including the development of what it calls a “comprehensive approach” to drug and alcohol use and addiction-related needs; better responses for younger people and women experiencing homelessness, ensuring the needs of people who are homeless and experiencing physical and mental health issues are addressed; and expanding access for the homeless to personal development, education, training, and employment.