30th May 2025
The Simon Communities of Ireland are urging government leaders to act decisively as the number of people experiencing homelessness in Ireland reaches an all-time high.
The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage has released its latest report, showing that the number of men, women, and children experiencing homelessness reached 15,580 in April 2025.
This represents an increase of 162 people compared to the previous month. 4,775 of these are children.
In the 12 months since April 2024, the data shows an increase of 1,571 people (11.2%) in emergency accommodation:
- 2,245 were families, marking a 12.5% (249) increase over the year
- 4,775 were children, showing a 13.5% (569) rise in the same period
- 1,849 were 18-24 year olds, marking a 10.3% (172) increase over the year.
These figures do not represent a static number of people in Emergency Accommodation. It is important to note that some people do exit homelessness, but unfortunately the number of people entering homelessness continues to be greater than the number exiting.
Ber Grogan, Executive Director of the Simon Communities of Ireland, said:
“This is the highest level of homelessness Ireland has ever seen, and it’s unacceptable. Behind every number is a person – a family, a child, a life in crisis. We are pleading with government leaders and local authorities to act decisively before this emergency becomes completely irreversible.
We need real investment in homeless prevention. A new Prevention Framework must be prioritised, and, more importantly, funded. On top of the rising numbers, we’re now facing unacceptable constraints on our ability to respond. In certain areas, there is no funding for second-hand housing acquisitions under Tenant in Situ (TIS) or Homeless Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS). We are deeply concerned that these decisions will result in reduced supply and increased vulnerability for those already most at risk.
Homelessness should never be normalised. The continued rise in numbers reflects a failure in leadership. Our leaders can – and must – show they care, through decisive action. They can – and must – do better.”
ENDS
For further information contact Robyn Keleghan 0858001275 / communications@simoncommunity.com
