The Ombudsman for Children, Dr Niall Muldoon, has said that he is encouraged by the fact that specific measures in relation to children have been included in the Housing Action Plan announced today (Tuesday). He also added that he expects the implementation of these measures to be included in the auditing and monitoring of the plan.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn our consultation with the Department of Housing, we highlighted the importance of bringing to an end the now normal practise of using hotels and B&Bs as emergency accommodation. I very much welcome the commitment in this plan that by the middle of next year, hotels will only be used as emergency accommodation in limited circumstances.<\/p>\n
\u201cB&B and hotel accommodation are not suitable for normal family living, and should be a measure of last resort for children and their families. The Ombudsman for Children\u2019s Office will closely monitor the implementation of the plan in this respect.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs suggested by the Ombudsman for Children\u2019s Office, the plan promotes a joined-up approach between education, health and Tusla to meet the needs of homeless families, by using the existing Children and Young People\u2019s Service Committees. This is very much to be welcomed.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe plan states that dedicated child support workers will be appointed to develop support plans for children and families. The plan also contains measures to provide home school community liaison and school completion staff to assist children experiencing homelessness to maintain regular school attendance.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile these commitments, if implemented correctly, will have a positive impact on children, they will put extra pressure on already under resourced services. I note that the plan does include additional resources to strengthen inter-agency arrangements. These extra resources will be vital.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Ombudsman for Children\u2019s Office also welcomes the inclusion of a safety guidance or voluntary code for child safety in emergency accommodation which will be produced and reviewed with relevant stakeholders. This was a key recommendation of this office and we will be happy to engage with this process if necessary to ensure that children are living in safe and secure environments.<\/p>\n
\u201cI am also interested to learn more about the suggested pilot project which will provide off-site or near-site family facilities including play, homework, cooking and washing facilities. These facilities are very much needed but we must ensure that children are not singled out from their peers.\u201d<\/p>\n
ENDS<\/strong><\/p>\n Contact: Notes to Editor<\/strong><\/p>\n
\nAoife Carragher
\nOmbudsman for Children\u2019s Office
\n01 865 6806\/ 087 148 4173<\/p>\n