COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF LUCAN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, March 26, 2019

MOTION NO. 2

MOTION: Councillor L. O'Toole

That this Area Committee asks the Chief Executive to provide details on situations where possible homeless people have been reported by members of the public and how we as a County address the issue of this type of homeless including what support is offered to those in need?

 

REPORT:

The Council operate a homeless clinic in County Hall where individuals or familes presenting as homeless can receive advice on their homeless situation and supports that may be available.

The Council operate 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.  A 'rough sleeper count' is carried out twice a year by SDCC staff and support agencies to identify and audit the numbers in the county.  The number of rough sleepers in the County fluctuates nightly as does their locations.  All reports of rough sleepers are investigated and supports offered.  The needs of rough sleepers are often very complex and challenging and require a comprehensive and coordinated approach.  In some cases they have refused services and supports which are available, however the service providers working in this area continue to engage and offer supports.

There is  a homeless facility at Riversdale House (Palmerstown) catering for older long term homeless singles. Killininny House (Firhouse) offers accommodation for single men and additional placements are available as 'step down/transitional' accommodation.  

If a member of the public wish to report a person sleeping rough in the Dublin Region they can visit www.homelessdublin.ie or alternatively they can contact the homeless unit in South Dublin County Council.