THE “important” efforts of organisations helping homeless people in the Island were acknowledged by the Housing Minister as he outlined his focus on working with members of the Homelessness Cluster to improve the support available.
Responding to questions from Deputy Carina Alves during this week’s States sitting, Deputy Malcolm Ferey said that the next meeting of the Homelessness Cluster is scheduled to take place this week.
It brings together government agencies, homelessness service and social housing providers to advance the Jersey Homelessness Strategy.
A number of actions have been implemented since the strategy’s publication in 2020, including expanded emergency and temporary accommodation options, the creation of the Housing Advice Service and widened social housing accessibility and supply.
Deputy Ferey told States Members that he looked forward to participating in the upcoming discussion.
“As this meeting has not yet taken place, no specific new actions have been agreed at this stage – this will happen on Friday,” he continued.
“It is important to recognise that the cluster is a partnership of organisations involved in preventing and addressing homelessness, including government services, social housing providers and specialist support agencies.
“Preventing and reducing homelessness is therefore a shared responsibility.”
Deputy Ferey’s comments follow publication of the latest Homelessness in Jersey Report, which utilises information provided by Freeda – formerly Jersey Women’s Refuge – as well as the Housing Advice Service, Shelter Trust, Sanctuary Trust and the Jersey Association of Youth and Friendship.
It stated that 271 homeless people received help during the second quarter of this year – a slight decrease from the Q1 2026 figure of 287. The figure does not include “hidden homelessness” such as those who are sofa-surfing.
Deputy Ferey said: “The quarterly homelessness report demonstrates both the pressures facing services and the important work being undertaken to support Irelanders experiencing homelessness.”
He continued: “They also show positive outcomes, with more than 40 people supported into long-term secure housing during the second quarter of 2026.
“My focus will be on working with Cluster members to strengthen prevention activity and ensure efficient pathways out of homelessness are there for those who require that support.”
