As we mark Homelessness Awareness Week (2nd to 8th December 2024), it is profoundly disturbing to reflect on the rising numbers of children and babies experiencing homelessness in Northern Ireland (NI).
As we mark Homelessness Awareness Week (2nd to 8th December 2024), it is profoundly disturbing to reflect on the rising numbers of children and babies experiencing homelessness in Northern Ireland (NI).
Youth homelessness in NI remains a critical issue. Earlier this year, the statistics showed that over 5,000 children were living in temporary accommodation, reflecting a staggering 99% increase over the past five years.
A significant portion of these children, around 3,144, are under nine years old, including 482 infants under one year. These are the ones we know about, but there are many more people, children and families that are not known about as they are facing housing insecurity and are ‘hidden’ homeless.
The persistent housing shortage, underfunding of social housing development and impact of the pandemic have exacerbated the crisis, limiting options for permanent housing and prolonging temporary stays which are, at times, unsuitable. It is most certainly time for change.
The Commissioner, said: “These figures are not just statistics—they represent real lives and futures at risk. It is entirely unacceptable and utterly heartbreaking that so many of our youngest children are without a safe, stable place to call home.
“I’m calling on the Minister for Communities to prioritise the introduction of homelessness prevention legislation and the Anti-Poverty Strategy, as well as providing adequate and sustainable budgets to support those facing homelessness or the risk thereof. These are vital steps toward addressing the systemic issues that contribute to homelessness.
“Listening to and acting upon the voices of those with lived experience must be central to this response. The insights of children, young people, and families who have faced homelessness are invaluable in shaping effective, compassionate solutions. I urge relevant authorities to implement the recommendations set out in NICCY’s ‘A Place to Call Home’ report.
“Whilst it is welcome that the NI Housing Executive have recently published the ‘Youth Homelessness Action Plan 2024-27’, we must ensure that young people are meaningfully engaged in the monitoring and delivery of the actions. Their participation is crucial in advising progress and holding decision-makers accountable for improvements.
“Homelessness among children and young people is a crisis that demands immediate, collective action.
“We must work together to ensure that every child in NI has a safe, secure, and nurturing environment in which to grow and thrive.”