700 people with mental health issues helped to stay in their own homes last year

Hail CEO Martina Smith: 'The work we do helps people who would often be at risk of homelessness or hospitalisation to maintain their tenancy and live independently'. Picture: Conor McCabe

Almost 700 people with severe mental health difficulties were helped stay in rented homes by a specialist housing association last year. However, the Housing Association for Integrated Living (Hail) has warned that without State funding, progress will stall.

Hail works nationally mainly with people on social housing lists who also have a mental health condition. Vincent Walsh, its housing officer, said “a huge part” of its work is helping tenants stay in their rented homes during a mental health crisis.