Housing Executive raises awareness of impact of homelessness at pop-up event in Newry
Staff from the Cedar Foundation were at the ‘pop-up event’, which took place beside Newry Cathedral, to give advice to local people so they can continue to live independently at home.
The Housing Executive demonstrated its commitment to addressing homelessness by participating in a ‘pop-up event’, that took place in the heart of Newry city centre, during Homelessness Awareness Week.
Housing Executive staff joined representatives from the statutory and community sectors to provide Newry people with crucial information on housing support services that are available to local individuals and families experiencing housing insecurity.
The event, held during Homelessness Awareness Week, was organised by the Housing Executive’s South Down Local Area Homeless Group. This multi-agency group, made up of representatives from organisations including the PSNI, MACs and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, takes a collaborative approach to addressing the complex issue of homelessness in Newry and the surrounding area.
The group were keen to raise awareness among the general public about the challenges faced by homelessness, showcase the range of support that is available and reduce stigmas associated with rough sleeping.
"Our presence at this pop-up event underscores our ongoing dedication to preventing homelessness and supporting vulnerable members of the community," said Claire Crainey, the Housing Executive’s South Down Area Manager. "In Newry and the surrounding council area, we've seen firsthand the complex challenges faced by individuals at risk of homelessness. This awareness event is more than just an information session. By bringing the services of everyone involved in our South Down Local Area Homeless Group directly to the community, we are demonstrating that we all believe in providing a compassionate approach to supporting people that are worried about homelessness."
The Housing Executive's participation highlighted its multi-faceted approach to helping people find a home. This includes providing emergency housing support, securing temporary accommodation and providing people with long-term housing solutions that meets their needs.
Attendees at the event received comprehensive information about housing rights, the application processes for social housing in Northern Ireland, and the range of support available to help people live independently.
