Simon Community braced for further demand after Budget cuts

The Simon Community is bracing itself for greater numbers turning to its services next year.

The charity for the homeless has voiced concern that cuts in last week's Budget to social welfare, health and social housing will have implications for its services across the country

At the launch of its annual review 2008, the Simon Communities of Ireland welcomed the safeguarding of the homeless budget for next year by the Minister of State for Housing Michael Finneran.

The charity said 2010 will be a landmark year for homeless service providers in Ireland amid fears that Budget cuts will have the biggest impact on the most vulnerable sectors of society.

Simon said many of its services were experiencing pressure in terms of increased numbers seeking access to services, for example in Cork where its emergency shelter is full every night.

It however acknowledged the Government's commitment to ending long-term homelessness and the need to sleep rough.