An Exploration of the Scale and Impact of Physical Disability in People Experiencing Homelessness in Ireland

About this report

This research was conducted by Dr Julie Broderick (UCD – previously TCD) and funded by the NDA under its 2023-2024 Research Promotion Scheme, the theme of which was ‘Disability in Marginalised Groups and Communities’. The research explores the scale and impact of physical disability in people experiencing homelessness in Ireland.

This research is an important contribution to the evidence base on physical disability and homelessness in Ireland. It was conducted in three phases: a scoping review of literature, a cross-sectional mapping study on physical disability and accessibility in homeless accommodation in Dublin and Cork, and interviews with people experiencing homelessness and other stakeholders about the impact of physical disability and potential solutions.

This study found just over one fifth of their sample of people accessing homeless accommodation had some kind of mobility limitation. Of those, just under half were sleeping in rooms up at least one set of stairs and just under half of these were staying in a hostel without a lift. In addition, one third of those with impacted or restricted mobility did not have access to an accessible bathroom. 

To read about previous research conducted under the Research Promotion Scheme, please visit NDA Research Promotion Scheme Reports - National Disability Authority.