There are not enough beds available to deal with homelessness in Kildare
Concern expressed over shortage of beds and emergency places
There are not enough beds available to deal with the level of homelessness in Kildare.
According to Labour Party councillor Aoife Breslin, Kildare County Council has not enough beds or emergency places to deal with the problem.
Cllr Breslin told a KCC meeting that the issue is “not an easy job for Kildare County Council.”
KCC has an emergency telephone line during daytime hours and an out of hours service, which is run with the Peter McVerry Trust.
KCC says it has 50 beds in Kerdiffstown, Naas; 20 beds in Newbridge and 11 in Athy providing supported emergency accommodation.
Elsewhere, Jigginstown Manor in Naas, operated by Tiglin in partnership with Homeless Care CLG, is a purpose-built transitional housing facility for young adults (aged 18–30) experiencing or at risk of homelessness. It comprises 12 studio apartments and a central main house that fosters community and on-site support.
Osberstown Cottage in Sallins, operated by Dublin Simon Community, is a five-bed shared transitional housing facility specifically designated for female residents experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
There are currently two family hubs located in Athy and Prosperous with a combined capacity for 11) families. These are specifically designed to support families with children who are experiencing homelessness.
KCC operates 24 transitional units to support individuals and families in advance of progression to more long-term accommodation.
Where alternative accommodation options are either unavailable or unsuitable, emergency accommodation is arranged through a number of hotels and B&Bs which KCC engages with regularly. These are subject to daily fluctuations and are managed to meet immediate needs, according to KCC official Annette Aspell.