Greens raise alarm as new HSE study shows severe developmental delays among homeless children
Green Party Councillors Lourda Scott, spokesperson for Children and Cllr Maria Dollard Spokesperson for Disabilities, have expressed deep concern at the growing number of children experiencing homelessness and the findings of a recent HSE pilot study that shows a clear link between homelessness and developmental delay.
The study, Developmental Delay in Children Exposed to Homelessness, found that children living without stable housing are at significantly greater risk of developmental difficulties than their peers. The research shows that homeless children are almost four times more likely to be referred for emotional and social concerns and more than twice as likely to experience delays in language, cognitive development and diet-related issues.
Cllr Scott said the report highlights the human cost of the Government’s failure to deliver a functioning housing policy.
“These findings are heartbreaking but sadly not surprising. When children are growing up in hotel rooms or cramped emergency accommodation, it has a profound effect on their, emotional wellbeing and development. This is not news to anyone, especially to anyone who is a parent. Every child deserves a roof over their head at a minimum to thrive, yet we are denying that to thousands of children across Ireland.”
As of June 2025, there were over 5000 children registered as homeless with Local Authorities and more than 9000 children living in International Protection Accommodation Services. Over half of these are in emergency accommodation centres where living conditions are often unsuitable for family life.
The report also found that many homeless children have no access to a GP or developmental assessments, leaving significant gaps in early intervention. Cllr Scott said this underlines the urgent need for targeted supports.
“Public Health Nurses and community services are doing their best under huge pressure, but they need more staff and resources to meet the additional needs of homeless children. We cannot continue to rely on stretched frontline workers to patch over a broken system.”
Cllr Dollard highlighted the already gaping holes in services for children seeking an initial assessment of needs let alone the services to meet them.
“It is utterly shameful that in one of the richest countries in the world, that children should be forced to live in conditions that can actually lead to developmental delay. The fault lies directly at government gates because of their failure to meet the most basic need of all, a place to call home.
"How can any child thrive without this? We have a sorry history in our treatment of children in schools, orphanages and industrial schools. Is the government prepared to start the cycle all over again?
The government’s latest plan launched, without any targets, seems to rely on ‘magical thinking’ to ‘manifest homes’ rather than clear targets, outcomes and priorities. Children should be at the very top of the list or we have learned nothing from our shameful past."
Cllr Scott called for a renewed national focus on prevention and early intervention, alongside a radical shift in housing policy.
“We need long-term, child-centred housing solutions that end the cycle of temporary accommodation."
