97% of Irish business leaders consider homelessness to be ‘critical problem’

By Cate McCurry, PA

Some 97 per cent of Irish business leaders consider homelessness to be a critical or significant problem in Ireland today, according to new research.

Despite this, only one in four businesses (25 per cent) have previously engaged in initiatives to support people experiencing homelessness.

The research was carried out by Empathy Research for Focus Ireland.

The most recent Department of Housing figures show that almost 16,000 people – including nearly 5,000 children – are currently homeless and living in emergency accommodation.

The survey of more than 100 businesses also revealed that 87 per cent believe the business community has an important role to play in ending homelessness, while nine out of 10 agree it is important that businesses actively support homelessness initiatives.

Focus Ireland is calling on Irish businesses to join the Shine A Light Sleep Out on Friday, October 10th. It is supported by Bord Gais Energy.

The annual fundraising initiative with events in Cork and Dublin, and people sleeping out in communities across Ireland, aims to raise €1.2 million in vital funds to support families and individuals experiencing homelessness, as demand on Focus Ireland’s services continues to rise with the worsening crisis.

The Empathy research also revealed that 16 per cent of businesses have been directly or indirectly impacted by homelessness.

Respondents cited recruitment and retention challenges as key issues, with one respondent stating that “employees can’t get accommodation, therefore, it is hard to retain and obtain staff”.

In addition, 83 per cent of business leaders surveyed said they would advise the Government to prioritise long-term social housing in the next budget as a critical solution to ending the crisis.

According to the new research, advocating for affordable housing policy changes, providing employment opportunities for those with lived experience of homelessness, and making financial donations were identified as the primary supports businesses can deliver.

Pat Dennigan, chief executive of Focus Ireland, said: “As the number of children in homelessness across Ireland approaches 5,000, I am personally calling on the business community to join us in taking action.

“By sleeping out for Shine A Light this October 10, together we will shine a light on Ireland’s children without a home.

“I was encouraged to see that research found that 87 per cent of businesses recognise their crucial role in ending homelessness.

“This shared belief is our greatest strength, as we know we can’t solve this crisis alone.”

Focus Ireland LEAP ambassador James Flanagan added: “At just three years old, I experienced homelessness with my mother.

“Those painful memories as a child stay with me, and it’s heartbreaking to see thousands of kids living through the same thing today.

“We are seeing the worst it has ever been, with thousands of children experiencing the trauma of homelessness.

“We broke that cycle because we received support, and I encourage you to give that same chance to others. By taking part in Focus Ireland’s Shine A Light, you are directly helping individuals, children, and families to rebuild their lives.”

The Shine A Light Sleep Out will take place in Iveagh Gardens and Cork City Gaol.

Companies, local businesses, community groups and schools will also sleep out in communities across Ireland this October 10th.