Social Development Minister Visits Homeless Family Centre

In partnership with the Department for Social Development and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive Supporting People Team, Ark Housing has accommodated and supported more than 800 homeless families back into permanent accommodation since the introduction of the Supporting People Programme in 2003. Minister Storey’s visit coincided with Homelessness Awareness Week and therefore it was very apt for him to see the positive impact that our homeless services have on people’s lives.

Minister Storey spent some time with staff hearing about the service and the range of activities and engagement that takes place with voluntary, statutory, and charitable organisations. He also spent some time visiting residents accommodation, before finally joining residents to mark Homelessness Awareness Week.

Commenting on the event Minister Storey said: “I would like to pay tribute to organisations such as Ark Housing Association who provide vital support to families who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.  The support provided here at Roseville House not only addresses the immediate and pressing issue of providing accommodation to those who need it but Ark Housing tailor their support to try and identify the fundamental reasons why families experience homelessness. Families are then supported to address those issues through signposting to partnership organisations.”

Mrs Judy Turner, Chair, Ark Housing stated: “Ark Housing has been providing temporary accommodation and support services to homeless families since 2003. The work that we do would not be possible without the support and funding made available by DSD through the Supporting People Programme, and it is a pleasure to have Minister Storey with us today.”