Work in Progress - Homelessness

Homelessness provision refers not only to people who are ‘sleeping rough’ but also to those living in unsuitable accommodation and those using informal arrangements for housing. The number of people presenting as homeless has started to increase again, with many of the 45,000 currently on the social housing waiting list accepted as homeless. Homelessness remains a significant social and financial issue in Northern Ireland, with expenditure on homeless services doubling to almost £60 million per annum over the last 10 years. Of particular significance is the increasing demand for temporary accommodation, with expenditure quadrupling since 2015.

This study will consider how the landscape around homelessness services has changed since our last report was published in 2017. It will evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of the approach taken by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to address homelessness, and provide appropriate help and advice. In undertaking this study, we will examine a range of issues including: 

• The drivers and impacts of increased demand for homeless services;
• Homelessness prevention;
• The extent of inter-departmental collaboration;
• Social housing supply arrangements;
• Governance and accountability structures; and
• Homelessness service arrangements in place in other jurisdictions.

We aim to publish this report in Winter 2024.