COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Wednesday, October 17, 2018

QUESTION NO. 2

QUESTION: Councillor F. Timmons

"To ask the Chief Executive in relation to the report at the last area meeting in regards to 5 people known to be sleeping rough in the Clondalkin Area. Has this number changed?  Has South Dublin County Council got emergency accommodation for these people should they want it and does outreach contact them every day to check they are ok?"

REPLY:

The Council operates an outreach service and multi-agency approach to address rough sleepers across the County. The Outreach worker works closely with the HSE in particular in identifying rough sleepers and sourcing appropriate accommodation and support services. The needs of rough sleepers are often very complex and challenging and require a comprehensive and coordinated approach.  Community services in Clondalkin are  reporting that there are more people sleeping rough in the area. Rough sleepers are difficult to locate  during the day and are often in quite remote well hidden areas. However, the outreache worker is working with local services to locate these individuals and offer supports. The outreach worker runs community clinics and appointments are made with the individuals and their own particular situation is discussed and support options available outlined.  While the outreach worker maintains regular contact with rough sleepers, it would not be on a day to day basis.

Those who 'rough sleep' that the service providers are aware of have been advised of the accommodation available. However, this is limited and many do not want hostel accommodation.