Almost 200 people slept outside in the grounds of Stormont on Friday to raise awareness of the growing homelessness crisis in Northern Ireland.
Tents were pitched at Stormont Estate as part of the Simon Community’s 2024 One Big Sleep Out.
The event aimed to shine a light on the fact that one in 33 people are now homeless in the north.
Members of the public joined people who have experience of homelessness and staff from the charity to challenge the stigma around the issue.
Gathered in front of Parliament Buildings, the participants held torches high to shine a light on the issue.
The scene featured a sofa representing the thousands of people who are ‘hidden homeless’ - sofa surfing or sleeping in their cars.
The Simon Community said by bringing people together at Stormont, they hoped to draw attention to the “homelessness crisis on the doorstep of our decision-makers”.
Jim Dennison, chief executive of the Simon Community, said: “It’s about challenging stigmas and amplifying the voices of those with lived experience of homelessness.
“Homelessness isn’t just rough sleeping.
“It includes people living in hostels, B&Bs, cars, and those sofa surfing. Since Stormont has returned in January, over 3,000 more people have become legally homeless.
“We now have over 58,000 people in Northern Ireland who are experiencing homelessness.
“Events like this shine a light on the true size and scale of the crisis, and hopefully inspires people to take action.”
The Sleep Out also provided an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for the temporary accommodation and support services Simon Community offers to those currently experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Mr Dennison added: “Simon Community has been on the frontline in tackling homelessness in Northern Ireland for over 50 years, but the demand for our services is escalating every single week.
“With support, we can do things differently and work towards finding the solutions to end homelessness.”
