Health project launched in Cork

A programme training those with lived experience of homelessness to act as health advocates is to be expanded into Cork.

Homeless charity Depaul Ireland confirmed the expansion of its Homeless Health Peer Advocacy (HHPA) programme at an event in Cork City Hall last Friday.

The HHPA programme is designed to enhance health access and outcomes for individuals living in homelessness through peer-led advocacy and support.

The advocates, who have each experienced homelessness themselves, assist others in navigating healthcare services and fostering trust with an aim to help them to receive the services and care they need.

At the launch of the programme expansion, Fine Gael TD and Minister of State for Health, Wellbeing and National Drug Strategy, Colm Burke, emphasised the programme’s impact.

He said: “The HHPA programme is a testament to the power of lived experience in shaping effective healthcare support for the homeless community. Expanding into Cork will undoubtedly improve health outcomes and foster a more inclusive healthcare system.”

David Carroll, CEO of Depaul, said the decision to bring the HHPA programme to Cork was “driven by the evident need for such a service”.

He said: “By addressing the health needs of individuals living in homelessness in the region, we are tackling one of the core barriers to stability and independence.

“With the support of the Inclusion Health Programme at Mercy University Hospital and our HSE funders, we are addressing critical health disparities and empowering individuals to lead healthier lives.”

Mr Carroll went on to highlight the outstanding contributions of the HHPA Dublin peer advocates that who have helped in the programme so far.

He continued: “The programme embodies our commitment to innovative, person-centred approaches and demonstrates our belief in the power of lived experience to drive meaningful change. Today, we recognise the incredible work and commitment of our peer advocates who have made the programme the success it is and are transforming how we address homelessness and health.”

Speaking about her own journey and her role as a peer advocate, Sinéad Flynn said: “Being a peer advocate has not only allowed me to give back to my community but has also given me a true sense of purpose. I've seen first-hand how trust and understanding can transform someone's approach to accessing healthcare. This programme changes lives, including my own.”

The HHPA Dublin programme has successfully trained 19 peer advocates, facilitated hundreds of health service interactions for people living in homelessness, and significantly improved participants' health literacy and outcomes.

Following its expansion to Cork, Depaul Ireland plans to expand the programme to other regions around the country and into Northern Ireland.