Homeless Support

If you are experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless you will need to present to the Housing Department at Aras an Chontae, Carrick on Shannon.  Our office is open Monday to Friday from 9.30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 4.30 p.m.  It is advisable to ring in advance to make an appointment call (071) 9620005 and select option 2. 

Eligibility for Social Housing Supports

In order to quality for access to social housing supports in the Leitrim area you must produce evidence of your local connection to the County.  A local connection is determined having regard to the following criteria:

 A member of your household has resided for a continuous 5-year period in the area concerned, or

• The place of employment of any household member is in the area concerned or is located within 15 kilometres of the area, or
• A household member is in full-time education in any university, college, school or other education establishment in the area concerned, or
• A household member with an enduring physical, sensory, mental health or intellectual impairment is attending a medical or residential establishment in the area concerned that has facilities or services specifically related to such impairment, or
• A relative of a household member resides in the area concerned and has resided there for a minimum period of 2 years.

Upon presenting at the Housing Office the Homeless Officer will complete an initial homeless assessment with you to establish:

You have a local connection to the area and whether you are registered as homeless with any other local authorities

• Recent accommodation history
• You are homeless or likely to be homeless
• The circumstances which contributed to your current situation
• Eligibility for Social Housing Supports    

It will then be determined if you have a priority need for temporary accommodation/access to social housing supports.

What to I need to bring with me?

• Photo ID e.g. public service card, driving licence or passport
• Proof of income/social welfare payment
• Proof of local connection to the area
• Proof of last permanent address

I’m under 18, what do I do?

Tusla has responsibility to respond to your needs if you are homeless and aged under 18 years.  A social worker with Tusla will help you.  If you become homeless or are at risk of homelessness, you need to contact your local Tusla Office.  If contacting after 5 p.m. and your local office is closed you need to go to your local Garda Station and the Gardai will contact the on-duty Social Worker.