Simon Community NI mark their 40th anniversary and launch a freephone helpline

The advice line, on 0800 171 2222  will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, enabling local people who are in crisis to call the organisation for accommodation, advice or support.

The freephone is a unique partnership. The cost of the telephone calls is funded through donated money from supporters of the organisation, with the Supporting People Programme providing the funding for the staff team who handle the calls.

Paddy McGettigan, Director of Accommodation and Community Support said ‘We are pleased to be able to launch this service. Homelessness is an issue in Northern Ireland that can affect anyone and this vital service provides help when needed.

We want to make sure we are doing all we can for people who find themselves in housing need. If people are at risk of becoming homeless, we are encouraging them to get in touch with us.

If we can’t help with a particular issue, we can signpost to a relevant organisation that can. We work in partnership with a range of charities and agencies to ensure we are strengthening communities by addressing homelessness in Northern Ireland.”

The freephone is just one of the services the organisation offers that are supported through voluntary donations. All money generated through fundraising also helps funds a harm reduction service, a rent and deposit bond scheme and homelessness prevention programmes.

The organisation’s range of services ensures it is working towards the prevention of homelessness and the promotion of independent living for people.

For more information, click www.simoncommunity.org, search ‘simoncommunitni’ on Twitter or find ‘Simon Community Northern Ireland’ on Facebook.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

• If you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless call 0800 171 2222
• Supporting People is administered by the NI Housing Executive