The Housing Crisis and Homelessness
Investigating the causes and impacts of the housing shortage and homelessness in modern Ireland.
TL;DR:This topic examines the complex factors driving the current housing crisis in Ireland, focusing on supply issues, rising rents, and the increasing number of individuals and families in emergency accommodation. Students explore the social consequences of housing insecurity, particularly for young people and marginalized groups. The module aligns with the NCCA LCA Social Education syllabus by connecting local social problems to broader economic policies and the role of both government and NGOs like Focus Ireland or Peter McVerry Trust.
About This Topic
This topic examines the complex factors driving the current housing crisis in Ireland, focusing on supply issues, rising rents, and the increasing number of individuals and families in emergency accommodation. Students explore the social consequences of housing insecurity, particularly for young people and marginalized groups. The module aligns with the NCCA LCA Social Education syllabus by connecting local social problems to broader economic policies and the role of both government and NGOs like Focus Ireland or Peter McVerry Trust.
Understanding the housing crisis requires more than just looking at statistics: it involves empathizing with lived experiences and analyzing policy decisions. By engaging with real-world data and personal narratives, students develop a critical perspective on the right to housing. This topic comes alive when students can physically map out local housing availability or participate in structured debates about social housing solutions.
Key Questions
- What are the main causes of homelessness in Ireland?
- How does the housing crisis affect young people?
- What role do NGOs play in supporting the homeless?
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionHomelessness only refers to people sleeping on the streets.
What to Teach Instead
Teachers should clarify the concept of 'hidden homelessness,' including people in emergency accommodation, hostels, or 'couch surfing.' Active investigation of national homelessness figures helps students see the full scale of the issue.
Common MisconceptionThe housing crisis is only a problem in Dublin.
What to Teach Instead
While Dublin is heavily impacted, students can use local data to see how rising costs affect rural and regional towns. Peer-led research into local rental markets quickly dispels the idea that this is a city-only issue.
Active Learning Ideas
See all activities→Inquiry Circle
The Cost of Living Map
In small groups, students use property websites to find available rentals in their local area versus a major city like Dublin. They compare these costs against the minimum wage and social welfare rates to calculate the 'affordability gap.'
Formal Debate
Rent Caps vs. Market Freedom
The class is divided into two teams to argue for and against government intervention in the private rental market. Students must use evidence regarding tenant security and landlord investment to support their points.
Role Play
The NGO Planning Meeting
Students take on roles as charity workers, local councilors, and community members to design a support strategy for a new family hub. They must prioritize services like education, healthcare, and long-term housing pathways.