An Taoiseach has to realise how children are at risk when homeless

This letter is an urgent appeal from 14 organisations who work with children to call on An Taoiseach to show leadership on the issue of child homelessness.

The number of children who are homeless with their families has doubled in the last year to a current total of more than 1,500.

As a result of Ireland’s housing crisis, children are living in unsuitable emergency accommodation including hotels and bed and breakfasts. Living in overcrowded conditions, with a family often sharing one bedroom, is highly stressful for children, posing immediate threats to their welfare, well-being, mental health and their childhood.