This afternoon, the All-Party Group on Homelessness met at the Northern Ireland Assembly. The group was briefed on the Housing Executive’s response to homelessness by Brian O’Kane, Assistant Director for Homelessness & Business Review and Richard Tanswell, Head of Homelessness Policy and Strategy.
In a wide ranging session, Brian and Richard covered several issues including:
- The present context when it comes to homelessness presentations and acceptances
- The Housing Executive’s approach to temporary accommodation provision in the midst of continuing high levels of need
- The operation of the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP)
- Strategic Initiatives the Housing Executive are taking towards homelessness prevention, including supporting forty-one projects through the Homelessness Prevention Fund
- The Domestic Abuse Action Plan, including the sanctuary scheme
- The New Foundations programme
- The development of the new Homelessness Strategy covering 2027-2032
Members and observers asked a wide array of questions on these subjects and other areas such as the development of Housing First; proposals for rent controls; and rough sleeper numbers around NI.
While there are unquestionably significant challenges when it comes to homelessness in NI, Brian and Richard were able to highlight several positive developments during the session. Brian indicated that the team at the Housing Executive are “delighted” with the outcomes which are being recorded through the Homelessness Prevention Fund. Richard further highlighted some positive developments when it comes to the implementation of the Domestic Abuse Action Plan. The group is grateful to them for taking the time to attend.
The next meeting of the APG will be in late March when four homelessness sector organisations will be presenting to the APG on their work and the challenges they face.
