Southeast Homelessness Action Plan 2023-2026 launched in Waterford
Waterford City and County Council, along with regional Local Authorities and the Health Service Executive (HSE) launched the Southeast Homelessness Action Plan in City Hall on Wednesday, April 10th.
Welcoming the Action Plan, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Joe Conway said, “The Southeast Homelessness Action Plan sets out an ambitious and challenging vision for addressing and enhancing homeless services across the Southeast.
“Waterford City and County Council is fortunate to work alongside our Local Authority colleagues and impressive NGOs who are committed to treating people who are experiencing homelessness with dignity and care.
“This plan covers a range of actions across six strategic aims which set out the work associated with the ongoing objective to reduce homelessness, provide ongoing support through the Housing First programme for rough sleepers and individuals with complex needs.”
Claire Hartley, Senior Executive Officer with Waterford City and County Council said that the action plan will create a definitive roadmap to augmenting homelessness services through inter-agency collaboration and action.
“This 360° approach to preventing homelessness, reducing homelessness in its duration and providing assistance to those who were formerly homeless, is only possible through cooperation.
“Agencies such as the HSE, housing bodies, voluntary service providers and the Local Authorities of the Southeast; Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford and Tipperary, with Waterford City and County Council designated as Lead Local Authority, are dedicated to the long-term objective of consigning homelessness in the region.”
Mr. Paul Goff, HSE General Manager Social Inclusion, additionally recognised the partnership approach with the Local Authorities and the NGO in striving to achieve the health outcomes within the strategy.
The Southeast Homelessness Action Plan has been informed and guided by key policy documents such as:
- Housing for All, a multi-annual plan which sets out to ensure every citizen has access to a good quality home to purchase or rent at an affordable price.
- Housing First National Implementation Plan which underpins the Government’s commitment to providing permanent and lasting solutions to rough sleeping and long-term homelessness in Ireland.
- Implementation of the National Quality Standards Framework for Homeless Services in Ireland which strives to inform service users as to what can expect from homelessness services across the country.
- Sharing the Vision – A mental health policy for everyone – which recognises that many vulnerable groups, including those who are homeless, have specific needs, which mental health services should be equipped to meet.
For further information or to access the Southeast Homelessness Action Plan 2023-2026 visit https://bit.ly/SoutheastHomelessActionPlan2023-2026
