Wednesday 25 March 2020
Rachel Woods MLA has called for urgent support measures for homeless people, those in temporary accommodation or in supported housing during this time of crisis.
“Staying at home is the right thing to do but is impossible for people and families without the shelter and safety of a home.
“It’s time for action during this unprecedented situation. I want to see the Executive move to make hotels and B&Bs available as safe temporary accommodation for people who are homeless and provide resourced, wrap-around support packages for those who need it.
“There is great concern about people who are rough sleepers across Belfast and other Northern Irish towns and cities. These people cannot self-isolate if showing symptoms of Covid-19 and often have poor health.
“The situation in sheltered accommodation presents further challenges. We know that a hostel in Belfast had to close and for those still open, shared facilities like kitchens and bathrooms are unsafe in the face of a pandemic.
“Hostel staff must be equip with personal protection equipment, testing facilities and dedicated isolation premises for those with symptoms.
“It cannot be the case that facilities remain closed and empty while vulnerable people are left to suffer on the streets and in unsafe hostels and shelters.”
ENDS
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