Two new Homeless Outreach Advisors have joined the Dunedin City Council’s Housing Policy team and will soon be out in the community to help people experiencing homelessness by working to connect them with existing services and identifying gaps in care and support.
“Homelessness is increasing in numbers and visibility in communities across the country, particularly urban centres, and Dunedin is experiencing this as well,” says Council’s General Manager Community and Strategy, Nicola Morand.
“Residents and businesses are asking for solutions, expressing their concern for the welfare of homeless people, for community safety and impact on public spaces.”
The Council said the Homelessness Outreach Advisors will work to connect with providers already working in the community and help homeless whānau navigate the support and services available, including housing options, healthcare, mental health support, addiction services, and income assistance.
Ms Morand said the Homeless Outreach Advisors service is designed to complement, not duplicate, services delivered by community-based providers.
“With dedicated workers connecting with homeless whānau and providers, we get a better understanding of the issues leading to homelessness, can help connect them with the services that are already available, and identify what support is missing. And more than supporting those in need, we also want to take steps to prevent homelessness,” she said.
After considering options, including outsourcing to a community provider, in April Councillors voted for an in-house service.
While Homeless Outreach Advisors are newly created roles at the DCC, similar positions exist in Wellington, Christchurch, Tauranga, Auckland and many other cities across the country.
In the coming weeks, the outreach advisors will be meeting with retail and hospitality businesses, other community-based support services, government agencies, health services and law enforcement.
“The first step will be to identify immediate needs, begin the dialogue and build trust,” says Principal Policy Advisor, Housing, Gill Brown.
“We know there is a lot of work to do, and we are confident this service will have genuine impact.”
