Left out in thecold: A review of rural homelessness in ireland 1 Homelessness Policy The Homeless Policy statement outlined the Government’s commitment to ending long term and rough sleeping homelessness by 2016 using a housing-led approach. The establishment of the Homeless Oversight Group and the publication of theImplementation Plan on the State’s Response to Homelessnessare a strong indicator of the Government’s commitment to reaching this target. However, it needs a continued commitment by whole of Government and resourcing is critical if this target is to be achieved. We recommend • That homelessness is prioritised as the most acute form of social housing need. • Continued commitment from the whole of Government to ensure that the 2016 target is achieved. • That there is urgent action on theImplementation Plan on the State’s Response to Homelessnessand that it is monitored and reported upon on a regular basis. • That the voluntary sector is included in all processes and structures as key partners 16 in meeting this target. 2 Housing First/Led Approaches The Government’s Homelessness Policy Statement launched in February 2013 endorses a housing led approach with the main focus being on supply, prevention and support.This is in line with the key policy recommendations at EU level, including the Social Investment Package which calls on Member States to tackle homelessness by adopting long term, housing-led, integrated homelessness strategies at national, regional and local level34. We recommend • That housing first/led approaches are implemented and supported in rural as well as urban contexts as a matter of urgency. These approaches have been proven to be effective in such settings35. 34 ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?catId=1061&langId=en 35 Murtagh and Partners (2013) ibid
Left out in the cold: A review of rural homelessness in Ireland
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