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Ark Housing Highlights Impact of Homelessness Awareness Week
Homelessness Awareness Week (HAW), held annually in the first week of December, is a crucial period for raising awareness about the realities of homelessness in Northern Ireland. Facilitated by Homeless Connect, the representative body for the homelessness sector, HAW aims to challenge the stigma surrounding homelessness and highlight the vital work of organizations across the sector.
This year, Ark Housing, along with numerous other housing associations and service providers, actively participated in HAW. Ark's dedicated Homeless Services team, which provides temporary accommodation, floating support, and early intervention services, plays a crucial role in preventing and addressing homelessness within the community.
"We recognize that preventing homelessness requires a collaborative approach," said Gail McLaughlin, Ark Housing's Homeless Services Manager and Chair of the Homeless Connect Public Policy Forum. "By working closely with other agencies and advocating for change, we can effectively support families impacted by homelessness."
Gail was instrumental in several key HAW events. She began the week at Belfast City Hall, where she joined housing professionals to mark the start of the campaign. Subsequently, she attended an Assembly debate on homelessness, where a motion calling for increased housing supply, improved cross-departmental working, and sufficient funding received cross-party support.
"This demonstrates the power of the housing sector coming together," said Gail. "Political unity on these crucial issues is a significant step forward in our fight against homelessness."
Ark Housing also hosted its own HAW event, "Weathering the Storm," a roundtable discussion that brought together housing professionals, service providers, residents, and stakeholders. The event provided a valuable platform for discussing the challenges faced by individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
"Homelessness Awareness Week is a vital reminder of the importance of continued advocacy, dedicated staff support, and collaborative efforts to address this critical issue. Ark Housing remains committed to providing high-quality services and working with our partners to ensure that everyone has access to safe and secure housing."