Kilkenny housing body warns older people at risk of homelessness as rental crisis deepens

A local voluntary housing body has warned that more older people are at risk of becoming homeless as the rental crisis deepens.

Tar Isteach Housing – the organisation formerly known as the Kilkenny Voluntary Housing Association (KVHA) has called for more capital funding to urgently deliver regeneration, construction and purchase of homes. The organisation, which held a formal launch yesterday in the Parade Tower, aims to provide quality and affordable housing solutions to vulnerable groups.

Almost one in five people over the age of 55 are in rented properties in this State making them more vulnerable to homelessness.

There are fears that some will never have a secure home as they earn above the social housing limits. With limited options for securing a mortgage, they often find themselves at the mercy of landlords.

Many challenges exist in accessing the rental market for grandparents, people with disabilities, mental health challenges and the homeless. New at-risk groups are emerging and are being squeezed out of home ownership.

Under the Baile Slán Strategy, Tar Isteach Housing will focus on the housing needs of the elderly, people with disabilities and mental health issues, families, and other marginalised communities.

The goal is to ensure that no grandparent in the country is left without a home, emphasising the importance of reciprocating the care they have provided to their families.

“They looked after us, now we have to look after them,” said Noel Sherry, CEO of Tar Isteach Housing. The organisation says every individual, regardless of their age or circumstances, deserves a safe and stable home.

Tar Isteach Housing says its commitment to its mission is evident in the acquisition of 126 properties and the establishment of 217 tenancies, with more in the pipeline.

To further highlight the urgency of the issue, Tar Isteach Housing is delighted to have Prof Eoin O'Sullivan, a renowned expert in the field, as the keynote speaker at their launch. Prof O'Sullivan will highlight challenges faced by vulnerable groups and
present innovative solutions for addressing the housing crisis.

Liam Keane, Chairperson of Tar Isteach Housing, emphasises the importance of addressing the needs of marginalised groups currently under capital funding.

"The elderly, people with disabilities and mental health issues, families, and other known groups need a home but they also need to access supports to ensure they keep a roof over their heads.

Sustainment funding must also be prioritised to keep and support individuals in their homes through approved housing bodies."

The organisation works closely with local authorities and the HSE to jointly address the housing and homeless crisis.

As Tar Isteach Housing unveils its Baile Slán Strategy for 2023-2025, it continues to provide housing options and hope to vulnerable groups in the face of the unprecedented levels of homelessness and housing shortage. The organisation remains dedicated to its mission of creating safe and secure homes for all.