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Novas highlights the stark rise in people accessing its services last year. During 2016, the homeless organisation supported 3,552 people, this being an increase of 45% compared to the previous twelve month period and an increase of 270% since 2010.

The greatest demand was on its Intensive Family Support service in Limerick, which supported 196 families with 450 children throughout the year. This was an increase of 100% from the previous twelve month period. There were more than 1,000 presentations to its out-of-hours service during the year and referrals to its McGarry House accommodation service increased by 400% during the same period.

Similar rises were experienced in West Cork with referrals to the Tenancy Sustainment Service more than doubling. Significant demand for services was also experienced in Tipperary and Kerry, two regions in which Novas are seeking to procure long-term housing for its clients.

In an effort to address the crisis, Novas opened a Winter Bed Initiative in conjunction with the Limerick Homeless Action Team in December last year. Communications Manager, Una Burns described the new service as a ‘humanitarian response to the immediate crisis. We do not consider this service as a long-term solution and our Housing First Team are working tirelessly with residents there to find long-term housing with support.’

Burns stated that while the issue of homelessness is a complex one, the root cause of such an increase is a dearth of housing supply in the city. Single households and families are hindered from moving on from homelessness by the utter lack of accommodation in the private rented market. However, there are 2,500 vacant properties in the city and this presents a unique opportunity to provide housing and provide it with relative speed.’ Novas are currently purchasing a number of homes scattered throughout local communities for people that are experiencing homelessness or are at risk.