Lighthouse Hostel is praised as an'invaluable' beacon for the homeless

Attending the open day at the Living Rivers Lighthouse Hostel last Thursday, the DSD Minister paid tribute to the 16-strong staff team and volunteers who, he said, are making a huge difference to the lives of those who come through its doors.

He said: “Homelessness is a huge issue for my Department and coming to the Lighthouse Hostel reaffirms my view that services such as this one for single homeless men within this area are invaluable”.

The Living Rivers Lighthouse Hostel, which has been in operation since January, 2002, provides temporary supported accommodation for vulnerable homeless men aged 18-65 that seeks to empower men to live successful independent lives.

The Department for Social Development currently fund the Lighthouse Hostel through the Supporting People grant at 341k per year.

It provides supported accommodation 24 hours a day, seven days a week for up to 20 homeless men with high support needs.

Minister Atwood said: “Funding the Lighthouse Hostel through my Department’s Supporting People programme ensures that the service to some of the most vulnerable people in our society is maintained. It is imperative that homelessness services are protected in this current financial climate.

“The present major shortfall in the housing budget cannot be ignored. The continuing need for more social housing cannot be ignored. That is why I will continue to make the case to my Executive colleagues that those most in need must be the first priority when allocating funds to my Department.”