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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
National
Roisin Butler

Homeless figures hit record high with over 10,805 in emergency accommodation

Homeless figures have reached a record high with over 10,805 people residing in emergency accommodation in August.

The Department of Housing released the data, which showed an increase in levels of homelessness recorded in the previous month. There were 5,326 homeless people recorded in Dublin alone, 2,406 of whom were children.

Dublin accounts for around 70% of all people experiencing homelessness in Ireland, according to the research. These figures do not take into account hidden homelessness, which includes people who do not have a permanent residence but rely on alternatives to emergency accommodation, such as couch surfing or staying with family.

Read More : Met Eireann's 30-day forecast with Ireland to get wintry blast in October

The Simon Communities of Ireland said more supports are needed to help families as living costs continue to rise. They called on the government to address the "shocking" figures immediately.

Wayne Stanley, head of policy with the charity, said: "Seeing a new record level of recorded homelessness with little hope that the situation will improve is devastating. 10,805 men, women and children in emergency accommodation is a shocking figure."

He added: "The trajectory of the homelessness crisis heading into the winter months is deeply concerning. Solutions are needed now."

The majority of homeless adults were housed in private emergency accommodation, which includes hotels and B and B facilities. The age range of 25-44 were the largest demographic currently facing homelessness. There were 401 people relying on emergency accommodation in commuter counties such as Wicklow, Kildare and Meath.

The news follows a large cost of living protest organised on Saturday, which was attended by as many as 5000 people in Dublin's city centre. Protestors focused on the housing crisis, as well as the soaring costs of electricity and fuel.

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