Justice Minister Naomi Long has emphasised the need for a collaborative, society-wide approach to address homelessness, following a visit to the People's Kitchen homeless charity in North Belfast. The Minister stressed that no single department or agency could tackle the issue alone, highlighting the necessity of integrated support systems and multi-agency responses.

During her visit to the People's Kitchen on the Antrim Road, Long learned about the services offered and spoke with individuals experiencing homelessness, addiction, and mental health challenges. She highlighted the interconnected nature of these issues, particularly for those who have had contact with the justice system. "I am keen that within justice we should do all we can to tackle homelessness, addiction and mental health," Long said. "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."

Long acknowledged that rough sleeping is often linked to underlying issues such as poverty, addiction, mental health problems, and abuse. She stated her intention to repeal vagrancy laws in Northern Ireland, decriminalising rough sleeping and begging. "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," she said.

The Minister confirmed that proposals for the repeal of these laws will be brought forward as an amendment to the Justice Bill currently before the Assembly. She added that addressing wider societal issues could also contribute to reducing offending and reoffending rates.

Long praised the work of the volunteers at the People's Kitchen, which provides a drop-in and outreach service for rough sleepers and other vulnerable individuals.