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Focus Ireland published an independent evaluation of its youth housing project in Limerick today which outlines how the service has changed the lives of vulnerable young people who were homeless or at risk, and the approach should be rolled out nationwide.

The evaluation of the Limerick Youth Housing (LYH) – which is available to young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness – was launched by Focus Ireland’s Limerick Manager Ger Spillane in Limerick City Hall. The innovative project is a collaboration between Focus Ireland, Tusla and Limerick City and County Council, with the aim of providing homes for vulnerable young people along with vital support to help them sustain their tenancies as they make the transition into adulthood. Fifty-four young people who were homeless or at risk of homelessness availed of the service since May 2013, and 85% of these had achieved ‘housing stability’ by the time they left the service.

In addition to providing housing, Focus Ireland staff work with the young people to help them develop a range of key skills that most people in stable home situations may take for granted. These include budgeting, banking, access to education and building self-confidence.

Click here to read the press release.

Click here for the full report.