SDLP Condemns Rising Costs Of Temporary Housing

SDLP MLA Mark H Durkan has condemned the rising cost of temporary housing placements, such as hotels and B&Bs, for people experiencing homelessness in Northern Ireland.

Figures obtained by Mr. Durkan through an Assembly question reveal that expenditure on non-standard housing accommodation has increased significantly, reaching an estimated £16.6 million in 2024/25. This equates to an average daily expenditure of £45,574.

"This spend is worse than eye-watering; at this stage it's eye-searing!" said Mr. Durkan. "In the context of current budget pressures, such an exorbitant level of spend on what is essentially a quick fix, is unforgivable." Mr. Durkan argued that this approach is not only ineffective but also detrimental to the well-being of those experiencing homelessness. "The children forced to move from hotel to hotel deprived of stability; a quiet space to do their homework, somewhere to play and promote their development or facilities to cook a healthy meal," he said.

The MLA called for a shift in focus from temporary measures to more sustainable solutions, such as increasing the supply of social housing and supporting private renters.

"This situation was forewarned and despite the publication of a Housing Supply Strategy, the Executive has failed to see the seriousness of the situation and take immediate steps to address this spiralling spend," Mr. Durkan said. "This money would be better spent on homelessness prevention initiatives, promised support for private renters to help them sustain tenancies and meaningful measures to bring some 22,000 empty homes back in to use."