Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 April 2023
1260. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the number of caseworkers from organisations (details supplied) that are currently assisting people to move on from international protection accommodation services accommodation; and if he will provide a breakdown of services available, by centre, including pre-reception, temporary emergency and emergency centres. [17589/23]
View answerI thank the Deputy, for his correspondence. There are 8 Housing Support workers employed with DePaul and 8 with the Peter McVerry Trust.
The role of the Housing Support Worker is to support those with status in IPAS accommodation and their transition into permanent/ long-term accommodation. They also provide additional place-finder staff where required.
The services provided by Housing Support include:
- Housing Assessment to identify needs and requirements;
- Assistance with registering with relevant Local Authority for Social Housing Supports including HAP;
- Identifying suitable properties;
- Arranging, attending and following up with property viewings when required;
- Practical assistance, i.e., assisting with start of tenancy agreements, utilities, setting up direct debits/standing orders.
The Department is currently working to finalise a tender process to deliver additional caseworkers in this area.
