There are three main approaches to address homelessness: prevention, emergency responses and providing housing with support. Emergency responses such as hostels ‘manage’ the problem and may not result in an individual avoiding homelessness on a long-term basis. Research has also shown us that an emergency response to tackling homelessness is more expensive. Above all, the longer a person is trapped in homelessness, the harder it is for them to cope with personal problems or health issues. Focus Ireland’s work concentrates on two key areas:

PREVENTION

• Advice and Information (A&I)

We operate A&I services in Dublin, Sligo, Cork, Kilkenny, Limerick, Waterford.

• Youth Services

Housing and support services for young people at risk of homelessness, such as those leaving State care.

• Tenancy Sustainment (Prevention)

To help people at risk of homelessness to keep their home.

SUSTAINED EXITS

• Advice and Information (A&I)

To help people on their journey out of homelessness.

• Housing

Long-term housing through properties we own or lease & short-term accommodation for those who are currently homelessness.

• Tenancy Sustainment (Sustained Exits)

Providing support to people who have exited homelessness to ensure they do not return to homelessness.

• Day Services

These services provide a comfortable and safe place with personal care facilities and quality, affordable food 365 days a year for people who are homeless and accessing emergency accommodation or sleeping rough. You can read more about the impact of our services in our 2018 Annual Report.

If you are in need of help or assistance from Focus Ireland’s services, you can find out how to contact the appropriate service here.

If you have been emotionally affected by the issue of homelessness and need a safe space to talk, you can email Samaritans or call them on their Freephone number at 116 123 or you can call Childline’s Freephone at 1800 66 66 66.