Homelessness in Bray: Growing Challenges and the Need for Local Support

Homelessness in Bray has been increasing, with more people reaching out for help and more notices to quit being issued. These notices are affecting some of the most vulnerable members of our community, including the elderly, disabled individuals, and single parents with children. While the most recent rough sleeper count in Bray recorded five people sleeping rough, this number doesn’t capture everyone experiencing homelessness. Many people may be sleeping in cars, staying temporarily with friends or family, or otherwise “couch surfing.”

Rough sleeping in Bray also has a seasonal element, with higher numbers seen during the summer months. While the county has a dedicated homelessness team based in Wicklow Town, the current setup can make accessing support difficult. Anyone identified as homeless must travel to Wicklow for a meeting to assess their needs, something that can be challenging for people who lack transport, money, or who are highly vulnerable.

At a recent Housing Strategic Planning Committee meeting, I raised the idea of having a dedicated homeless officer based in Bray, particularly since we already have a local housing department. Unfortunately, I was told there is no budget for this. I suggested that perhaps a homeless officer could be in Bray once a week to provide support locally. The response was that a homeless officer can be requested to come to Bray for specific assessments if needed, but there is no regular presence.

Bray needs a more accessible approach to supporting people who are homeless or at risk. Having a local officer, even on a part-time basis, could make a real difference for vulnerable members of the community, ensuring they can access services without the barriers of travel and vulnerability. As calls for help continue to rise, it’s clear that local solutions need to be part of the conversation.