Each conference is based on a theme and the programme is informed by topics and issues that frontline staff tell us they want to know more about.

Our survey of staff working on the frontline of homelessness repeatedly highlights that they are experiencing increased demand for their services and working with more clients with increasingly complex issues. They are also dealing with barriers to accessing accommodation and services, making it harder to deliver the required support to their clients.

The need to work together to strengthen our community, to ensure there is support for those working tirelessly to address homelessness is more necessary now than before.

So, this year, we were pleased to host 400 participants at our conference based on the theme of Strength in Community. There were ten sessions that focused on key issues including temporary accommodation, hoarding, mental health, and wellbeing.

We were pleased to have the support of speakers who represented a range of organisations including other charities, service providers, APPGs and the Legislative Assembly in Northern Ireland.

The aim of the conference was to provide opportunities to share learning and have discussions on what is being done across the sector to address homelessness and related issues. It offers staff the opportunity to listen, learn and ask questions to identify ways to help their clients.

After attending the event, one participant commented that they felt: ‘Optimistic that changes will be made, and our work valued.’ 

Another commented: ‘I found listening to the struggles what other people have been going through helpful I felt it wasn’t just me and not so alone.’ 

Please view our conference sessions and resources for more detail on what was covered.