Crisis homeless facilities a positive: DSD

Housing Minister Nelson McCausland says the development of crisis facilities and a street outreach service for rough sleepers and street drinkers in Londonderry is one of the actions taken by the Housing Executive to address homelessness over recent years.

By Kevin Mullan

Published 28th Jun 2014, 08:47 BST

The Executive is aiming to eliminate long term homelessness and rough sleeping by 2020.

Mr McCausland said the local crisis facilities were recommended in the NIHE Homelessness Strategy 2012 – 2017 and paid for from an alloted ‘Homelessness Budget.’

He stated: “The Housing Executive achievements funded from the Homelessness Budget include: Simon Community undertaking a preventative homeless programme within schools; Housing Rights Service working with prisoners to find suitable accommodation on release; and Women’s Aid extending their Domestic and Sexual Violence Helpline to aid vulnerable women.”

The Minister also pointed to the procurement of a Private Rented Sector Access Scheme by Smartmove NI; and the establishment of a Multi-Disciplinary Team in Belfast to support homeless people with complex needs.

Women's Aid