Request for Tender for Research Project:

Determining the need for and current Availability of Long-Term Supported Accommodation for individuals experiencing homelessness who are not able to live independently, due to complex health problems

Background information and invitation to tender

National Social Inclusion Office 

The National Social Inclusion Office (NSIO) in the HSE holds a remit for promoting health and well-being, improving health outcomes and enabling access to health services for vulnerable groups, including those that experience homelessness or may be at increased risk of homelessness. Homelessness is a growing public health issue in Ireland and is associated with multiple complex and chronic health conditions, decreased life expectancy and increased access to secondary care services.

Background to the tender

The National Social Inclusion Office invites tender for research on “Determining the need for and current availability of Long-Term Supported Accommodation for individuals experiencing homelessness who are not able to live independently, due to complex health problems.” This research is to focus on two regions in Ireland: Midlands and North-East. Both regions have a higher number of rural areas, and there have been reports of people experiencing homelessness who are unable to live independently in the community. Currently, there is no long-term accommodation available in these areas.

Homelessness is a complex social issue that affects individuals from various backgrounds, with diverse needs and challenges. Homeless population is much more likely to have complex, multiple occurring disorders that include chronic, somatic conditions coupled with mental health and/or substance use disorders. The longer individuals are entrenched in chronic homelessness, the higher the likelihood one will experience a chronic medical condition (Caton, et.al, 2005). According to the Census 2016, 61.9% of homeless population reported their health to be good or very good while 87% of general population stated the same.

Please find the full details of the tender attached below.

Completed application forms must be sent by email to antonia.bura@hse.ie with subject line “Need for and current availability of long-term supported accomodation”. 

Completed application forms must be received no later than April 30th (the ‘tender deadline’). Application forms received after the tender deadline will NOT be considered.