It is vital that we foster collaboration and develop innovative
solutions as part of a whole society approach to tackle
homelessness, Justice Minister has said.
Speaking after a visit to the People's Kitchen, a homeless
charity in North Belfast, the Minister said no department or
agency alone can address homelessness. Together with statutory,
voluntary and community sector partners, we must work
holistically to tackle this important cross-cutting issue.
The Minister was shown around the premises of the People's
Kitchen on the Antrim Road and learned about the services
offered. She also had the opportunity to meet and talk to people
using the services who are experiencing homelessness, addiction
and mental health issues.
said:
“I am keen that within justice we should
do all we can to tackle homelessness, addiction and mental
health.
“Often, individuals who have experience of the justice
system, face significant hurdles and complex issues.
Understanding that these issues are interconnected is vital, and
it is therefore essential we foster collaboration among the
various departments, develop innovative solutions and integrated
support systems to improve lives and life chances.
“Rough sleeping is often linked to underlying issues,
such as poverty, alcohol and drug addiction, poor mental health,
sexual and domestic abuse, and family breakdown. These are
complex and cross-cutting issues which require a multi-agency
response of support rather than criminalising people under
archaic laws simply because of their personal circumstances. That
is why I intend to repeal vagrancy laws in Northern Ireland to
decriminalise rough sleeping, as well as begging. Proposals
for repeal will be brought forward as an amendment to the Justice
Bill which is currently making its way through the
Assembly.
“Working collectively, the development and implementation
of initiatives to tackle some of the wider societal issues, can
also help to reduce offending and reoffending.”
The Minister also praised the tremendous work of volunteers at
the People's Kitchen facility which provides a drop-in and
outreach service to people on the streets including those rough
sleeping.
