Most new arrivals are distraught and in need of support
THE shortage of housing stock in Limerick has reduced the flow of families being rehoused through Suaimhneas emergency accommodation in Moyross.
Rosemary Fitzgerald, project co-ordinator of Suaimhneas at 29 Ballygrennan Close, believes there will be a change in the people entering the centre in the near future, with an increase in families coming from outside the traditional disadvantaged areas.
As the centre braces itself for budget cuts, she accepts that their will be increased demand for their service, as many families have been devastated by unemployment.
Since opening in 2002, the centre has provided emergency accommodation to homeless women and their children.
It can facilitate six families at anytime, each is provided with an ensuite room and they all share a communal kitchen, living-room and play-area.
If a family is referred to the centre and cannot be accommodated, they will be temporarily housed in a bed and breakfast, which, says Rosemary, is far from ideal because these families have to walk the streets during the day.
She explained: “When the centre opened, we had a limit of a three month stay for each family but as the housing stock has decreased, we have had to change our policy”.
Records in the centre show that family stays have lengthened since the beginning of the decade, and the numbers of families moving through the centre has decreased.
The centre is funded by the health board and Limerick City Council but, like all voluntary and statutory organisations, they will be confronted by budget cuts this year.
Suaimhneas have been lucky to receive donations from individuals like J.P McManus in the past, but Rosemary pointed out they received just enough funding to get by and this year, had to fundraise to take the families to Tons of Fun, and they also hope to take them to the seaside.
Rosemary argues that cuts in their budget will not benefit the taxpayer. “This centre actually saves the taxpayer a huge amount of money as it removes the need to provide accommodation in a B&B.
Suaimhneas provides more security than a B&B, and it provides a warmer environment in which the families are supported by the staff in the centre.
There are also several self development classes run by the VEC, including yoga and cookery.
Many of the families arriving at Suaimhneas have become homeless because of rent arrears and as a result, good budgeting habits are encouraged.
Rules on budgeting include a ban on taxis and takeaways, designed to encourage saving while staying in the Suaimhneas.
Clients are also advised to be well prepared for rehousing. Rosemary added:, “Many of the girls arrive here with nothing so we encourage them to purchase utensils and other items, and most leave here well stocked”.
Staff at Suaimhneas have received training in mental health and suicide prevention. Counselling was not a part of their job but they have had to adapt because most of the women that arrive are distraught and need support.
Staying at the centre can have different effects on people. “Some can become very comfortable and find it difficult when they are rehoused as the support of the centre is no longer there and the responsibilities of managing a household returns, but many use their time to save and prepare for rehousing.
Pictured – Members of the co-ordination team at Suaimhneas who provide emergency accommodation for families referred to the centre.
