The Success of Housing First

In this episode of Housing Insights, host David Silke is joined by Rob Lowth, Director of the Housing First National Office in the Housing Agency. The focus is on Housing First, a housing-led approach designed for people with complex needs, a history of rough sleeping, or long-term use of emergency accommodation.

Rob explains that Housing First provides permanent, secure accommodation alongside intensive wraparound supports to help tenants maintain their tenancies. The model, which originated with Dr. Sam Tsemberis in the United States around 1990, is highly evidence-based and has proven to be a more cost-effective option than long-term emergency accommodation. The discussion covers the joint housing and health approach, the critical role of clinical staff, the current milestone of over 1,000 tenancies across all 31 local authorities, and the national success rate of approximately 80% in tenancy sustainment.

Links and Resources

Contact for Homeless Individuals: Their local authority's Homeless Action Team.

Contact for Property Owners: info@housingfirst.ie (Housing First National Office).