Page 7 - Iveagh Trust

Annual Report 2023 05
THE
HOSTEL
While every year, I have the sad task of reporting
the number of deaths of residents, this year saw
the passing of two of our longest staying residents.
Even for me, here only five short years, their
absence is keenly felt, as they had become part of
the heart of the Hostel, due not only to their time
with us but also because they were truly nature’s
gentlemen. How much more deeply felt is their
loss by staff who have served here much longer
than me.
But perhaps the sorest loss of all for us in the
Iveagh Trust was the passing of one of the
Hostel’s dearest friends and champions, Noel
Byrne. All staff carry fond and amusing memories,
not least the night staff, whom he called to see
each evening. If ever a detailed history is written
about the Hostel, there will need to be a chapter
about Noel.
SHANE BRADLEY, HOSTEL MANAGER
I know this may seem an odd note to begin an
annual review of the Hostel but these events
and our part in them demonstrate the Iveagh
Trust’s ethos in action. Not only do we provide a
roof and sustenance, but also care and courtesy,
dignity and respect and comfort to loved ones.
Such a gift is priceless.
“These events
Of others who left the Hostel in 2023, 16
and our part in them
moved into local authority-provided housing or
private rented accommodation. This is a similar
proportion to 2022. Of those who arrived, almost
two thirds had ‘no fixed abode’, including 10, who
demonstrate the
were ‘rough sleeping’. The number of inquiries
Iveagh Trust’s ethos in action.”
from new applicants were fewer than in 2022
but still significantly higher than before the
pandemic. These realities clearly demonstrate
the impact of the dearth of affordable/social
housing, so widely reported in the media.
Finally, every year there are countless reasons
to thank staff both collectively and as individuals
and 2023 was no different. Their welcome to
new residents, their listening ears to residents
in trouble, their willingness and generosity to
ensure adequate cover at all times is deeply
appreciated.