The number of presentations to Clare’s Homeless Action Team skyrocketed last month.
The local authority’s dedicated support service engaged with almost 500 households in November, including an increasing number of “complex cases”.
Last month, the local authority had 428 repeat engagements, which is higher than the combined total of new and repeat points of contact in any other month this year.
While the 52 new presentations recorded is also the highest figure of its kind in 2023 and almost double the 27 new presentations received in October.
In total, 480 households presented to Clare’s Homeless Action Team in November, which is an increase of 94% on the same month last year.
In November, 68 adults, 39 dependents and 20 families were recorded as living in Emergency Accommodation in Clare.
From October 20th to the 16th of November, the local authority also recorded thirteen exits from homeless shelters.
This included 2 exits to Approved Housing Bodies, two self-discharges, two discharges for non use of a bed, one discharge
for breaching a code of conduct and four discharges for either abusive behaviour, thefts or assaults to staff.
The Homeless Action Team has noted a significant increase in the workload of each staff member due to a surge in complex cases.
The local authority says there has been a significant rise in the number of presentations of individuals and households experiencing difficulties around addiction or mental health, dual diagnosis, physical disabilities, and a further increase in the number of households presenting from the Travelling Community.
