Increase in numbers using Simon services last year

Some 4,830 people used Simon community services last year, an increase of almost 1,500 over 2006 figures according to the charity’s annual report published today.

Simon Communities of Ireland said that while some of this increase could be attributed to the rise in services provided and more accurate reporting throughout the country, the figures show a significant number of people are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Patrick Burke, CEO of the charity, said the eight Simon communities around the country are running at capacity and with the economy in recession the charity is “under pressure” to deliver services.

He said: “A total of 4,830 people used Simon’s services in 2007 - that was when times were good - now we face a tough Christmas and an even tougher 2009.

“A faltering economy and rising unemployment levels – are both risk factors for homelessness — and both will place mounting pressure on those services.”

And he made an appeal to the public for donations after the charity announced a shortfall of over €1 million this Christmas.

He said: "Simon is hugely dependent on the goodwill of thousands of people who donate money to the organisation every year.

"In the run-up to Christmas, I would urge you not to forget those who are most vulnerable – every donation, no matter how small will help local Simon Communities continue to develop our services in preparation for an increase in the number of people who will be turning to us for help over the coming year."

Yesterday a review by the Homeless Agency Partnership showed the number of people homeless had increased by 4 per cent over the past three years, to more than 2,300.

The figures also showed a dramatic increase in the number of foreign nationals sleeping rough with 38 per cent of rough sleepers in 2008 compared to 9 per cent in 2005.