2nd September 2025
The Simon Communities of Ireland and James Browne, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, have launched Simon Week 2025. Taking place from 22nd to 26th September, Simon Week asks a direct question: “Who cares?” At a time of rising homelessness, growing public frustration, and unmet political commitments, the Simon Communities’ answer is clear: We do.
With 16,058 people currently experiencing homelessness in Ireland, Simon Week spotlights Ireland’s target to end homelessness by 2030, highlighting the urgent need for cross-government action and serious investment in frontline solutions.
- A cross-departmental strategy to end homelessness by 2030
- Dedicated investment in single adult homelessness
- Regional prevention & food security models
- Age-friendly housing for older people
- Sustainable NGO funding through full cost recovery.
Speaking at the launch of Simon Week 2025, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne, said:
“Tackling homelessness and supporting people and families who are experiencing precarious living situations is my priority as Minister. I see the people behind the statistics. They deserve our support and we have to do better for them across all levels. I am determined to address the issues involved in every way I can and work across Government to do so.
While we have had an important and welcome increase in the numbers exiting homelessness and the numbers of those prevented from entering homelessness, the overall number of people having to access emergency accommodation provided by the state and incredible services like Simon on the ground is serious challenge.
I am committed to ensuring that we support more people and while we’re at it ensure more and more people don’t face serious uncertainty in having a safe and secure roof over their head either. Our next housing strategy will be placing a strong emphasis on homelessness because it has to, but also because tackling this is at the root of my work in this role.
Events like Simon Week shine an essential light on both the human stories and the systemic issues that have to be addressed. I genuinely commend the Simon Communities for creating spaces where solutions can be explored collaboratively, and I urge all stakeholders to take part in these critical conversations.”
Ber Grogan, Executive Director of Simon Communities of Ireland, added:
“Every person experiencing homelessness has a story, and every story demands a solution. 5,014 children are living with the trauma of homelessness. Who cares? The Simon Communities of Ireland cares – and during Simon Week 2025 we’ll show how, by mobilising communities, government, and policymakers to act decisively. Homelessness in Ireland is solvable – but it requires courage, commitment, and collaboration. We want public representatives to use their voices to show that they care about ending homelessness. They can attend a Simon Week event, raise Simon’s asks in the Dáil, Seanad, or Council and support full cost recovery for NGOs in Budget 2026. Let’s replace talk with action.”
Simon Week is proudly supported by Cash & Carry Kitchens and highlights include:
Single Adult Homelessness: Who Cares?
Monday, 22nd September, Goldie Chapel, Nano Nagle Place, Cork (In collaboration with Cork Simon Community)
An in-depth conversation exploring Ireland’s housing policies and their impact on single adult homelessness. The event will examine rough sleeping in Cork, mental health challenges, service gaps, and the effectiveness of the Housing First model.
Food Poverty and Family Homelessness: Lessons from Limerick
Tuesday, 23rd September, Limerick Strand Hotel, Ennis Road (In collaboration with Mid West Simon Community)
This session focuses on the key challenges related to nutrition and food poverty faced by families and children across Clare, Limerick, and North Tipperary. Attendees will hear from experts in the sector, explore innovative solutions delivered by Mid West Simon, and connect with stakeholders working on sustainable responses.
Retiring into Homelessness: Challenges and Solutions
Friday, 26th September, Aula Maxima, University of Galway (In collaboration with Galway Simon Community)
Registration is now open for Simon Week 2025 at www.simon.ie. Members of the public, policymakers, service providers, and advocates are invited to join the conversation.
ENDS
For further information contact: Aileen Gaskin 087 7724 717 / communications@simoncommunity.ie
