Huge Increase In Demand From Older Adults Seeking Support For Homelessness and Addiction

Friday, 5 September 2025 10:03

By Emma O'Connor

141,730 people availed of supports from Merchants Quay Ireland last year.

There's been a significant increase in demand from older people for homeless and addiction supports.

Merchants Quay Ireland's annual report shows a three per cent increase in client engagements.

141,730 people availed of supports from Merchants Quay Ireland last year.

2024 also saw a large increase in the number of older people seeking help, with almost 900 over-55s cared for, compared to 692 in 2023.

165 women were supported at Jane's Place, the charity's dedicated women's service.

Almost 82,000 meals were provided, up 24%,155 people were admitted to detox and rehab services, up 123, and there were 275 interventions for young people.

The charity reported almost 23,000 harm reduction interventions, including needle exchange and safer injecting training, and there were over 15,000 in prison counselling interventions.

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