Belfast Charity Urges for New Night Shelter for Rough Sleepers
A Belfast charity is pushing for a new night shelter to support the city’s homeless population amid rising needs
Belfast, Northern Ireland, Homelessness, Night Shelter, People’s Kitchen
Belfast: A homeless charity is really stepping up its game. The People’s Kitchen is calling on the government to set up a new night shelter for those sleeping rough. They’ve noticed a big rise in people needing help lately.
Recently, they took Communities Minister Gordon Lyons on a tour of their Antrim Road hub. It was a chance for him to see what they do and talk to some folks who use their services.
According to the charity, more and more people are reaching out for support. They’re asking the government to step in and improve services for those facing homelessness, addiction, and mental health challenges.
Volunteers are eager to get a new night shelter going in the city center. They’re also launching a nighttime support unit to help rough sleepers. Paul McCusker, a local councillor and co-ordinator, mentioned that many people are forced to spend nights in hospital emergency rooms just to stay warm.
He explained that after 5 PM, services tend to drop off, leaving people without options. They want to create a space where folks can come for advice, medical help, and housing referrals in the evening.
Paul pointed out that at least ten people he knows end up in emergency departments at night because they have nowhere else to go. This puts extra pressure on hospitals that are already stretched thin.
Every morning, The People’s Kitchen helps around 80 to 100 people with breakfast and connects them to other services like housing and addiction support. They’re a voluntary organization and don’t get government funding, which makes their work even more challenging.
Paul is urging the minister to help charities tackle rough sleeping. He believes it requires a coordinated effort between different government departments. He’s seen a dramatic increase in vulnerable people in the city and is calling for a commitment to end rough sleeping.
He shared that they started nine years ago helping just ten people, and now they’re feeding over a thousand weekly. There’s a real emergency on the streets, and they’re asking for an emergency night shelter to provide more beds for those in need.
Minister Gordon Lyons visited to hear directly from volunteers and service users about how his department can help. He acknowledged the ongoing pressures on the housing system and the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness.
He also talked about the Department for Communities’ efforts to tackle long housing waiting lists and mentioned a new Housing Supply Strategy aimed at addressing various housing issues, including homelessness.
Lyons emphasized the need for innovative solutions and a combined effort to support those currently in crisis. He understands that homelessness is about individuals and families, and while accommodation is crucial, it often needs to be paired with support services to meet complex needs.