Housing policy does not recognise the needs and rights of children

“The news today that no accommodation of any kind was available for more than 30 children and their families is shocking, and highlights the impact that current housing policies are having on young people”, says Ombudsman for Children, Dr Niall Muldoon.

“Earlier this week I launched our Annual Report 2016 which recorded an increase from 3% to 5% in the number of complaints about housing. Many of these complaints related to access to suitable housing particularly for young people with disabilities and those who were homeless.

“Emergency accommodation is the option of last resort for families. B&Bs and hotels do not support normal family living and are not suitable for prolonged stays. However, they should be available to people in need, when they need them.

“The stress and trauma experienced by homeless families every day cannot be expressed, and for the young people with absolutely nowhere to stay earlier this week, it is not worth thinking about.

“Housing policy and legislation does not adequately consider the individual rights and welfare of children. As the first anniversary of Rebuilding Ireland approaches, a review is necessary to outline the measures in place to support children and families in homeless services.

“National quality standards for homeless services are also needed to monitor emergency accommodation and ensure adequate provision is made that supports normal family routines as much as possible.

“The case of Sarah and her family, detailed in our annual report, highlights the need to specifically plan for the needs of children in housing policy, particularly those with additional needs. Sarah who was seven, has hydrocephalus and other medical needs. When the rented house her family were living in was sold, the family ended up living in homeless accommodation and spent nights sleeping in their car. In Sarah’s case a suitable property was found, but the upset experienced by her, and other children in similar situations, cannot be undone.

“Childhood is a short and precious time. The housing crisis is robbing this time from too many children. Housing policies and legislation must support the rights of our young people.”

ENDS
Contact:
Aoife Carragher
Ombudsman for Children’s Office
01 865 6806 / 087 148 4173