16/11/2018
Amount Of Belfast Rough Sleepers Trebles In One Year
The number of people sleeping rough on the streets of Belfast has trebled in the space of one year, according to the Housing Executive.
Sixteen people were encountered on the street between 2am and 5am on the annual street count on 06 November.
It found five people sleeping rough at the same time of year in 2017, demonstrating a dramatic rise.
Colm McQuillan, Director of Housing Services at the Housing Executive said they are "aware of the increased prevalence in the city of rough sleeping and street activity".
"Throughout the year, we work with all agencies to do all we can collectively to ensure we have sufficient temporary accommodation to meet demand and we are particularly aware of this coming into the winter period."
Mr McQuillan added that following the survey, the Housing Executive will prioritise the extension of emergency accommodation options, to meet demand in the winter months.
"Whilst it is important to measure this on a regular basis, our priority is to make sure these individuals are receiving the help and shelter they need and we are working in collaboration with our partners to address this."
(JG)
Sixteen people were encountered on the street between 2am and 5am on the annual street count on 06 November.
It found five people sleeping rough at the same time of year in 2017, demonstrating a dramatic rise.
Colm McQuillan, Director of Housing Services at the Housing Executive said they are "aware of the increased prevalence in the city of rough sleeping and street activity".
"Throughout the year, we work with all agencies to do all we can collectively to ensure we have sufficient temporary accommodation to meet demand and we are particularly aware of this coming into the winter period."
Mr McQuillan added that following the survey, the Housing Executive will prioritise the extension of emergency accommodation options, to meet demand in the winter months.
"Whilst it is important to measure this on a regular basis, our priority is to make sure these individuals are receiving the help and shelter they need and we are working in collaboration with our partners to address this."
(JG)
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