21st November 2024
As homelessness continues to impact thousands of children across the country, the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation (INTO) today launches our updated digital resource, Homelessness in the Classroom: Guidance for Primary Teachers, which was originally drafted in collaboration with Focus Ireland in 2019.
The document, which has been informed by HSCL teachers, offers practical advice for teachers supporting pupils affected by homelessness and serves as a reminder of the critical role schools and teachers play every day in assisting children through adversity and creating a foundation for lasting change.
Teachers are on the front line, providing stability and care for children living in emergency accommodations, hubs, or other temporary housing arrangements. However, the increasing prevalence of homelessness in Irish society is stretching resources in schools to their limits.
While this vital tool equips teachers with strategies to support vulnerable pupils, INTO is urging the Department of Education to step up its efforts to address the growing challenges faced by teachers and pupils alike. For children, the experience of homelessness can disrupt education, emotional well-being, and a sense of security. Teachers, as vital figures in children’s lives, are providing stability and support during these difficult times.
Homelessness in Ireland has soared to record levels, with 14,760 people now in emergency accommodation — a shocking 17% rise in child homelessness in just one year. Over 4,500 children are among those without a home, a crisis that grows more devastating by the day.
John Boyle, General Secretary of INTO, said:
Teachers see the devastating impact of homelessness on pupils every day. With over 14,760 people homeless, including 4,561 children, this crisis is worsening. No one should have to create a publication like this, because no child should ever be homeless. While teachers do extraordinary work to support these children, they cannot do it alone.
Schools urgently need targeted funding, resources, and training. The Department of Education must lead the way to ensure no child is left behind because of circumstances beyond their control.