Welfare Reform on the Web (December 2006): Homelessness - overseas

Educational issues for children and young people in families living in emergency accommodation: an Irish perspective

A.F. Keogh, A.M. Halpenny and R. Gilligan

Children and Society, vol.20, 2006, p.360-375

This article offers insight into how homelessness may impact on children’s participation in education through two case studies. The present study indicates that the experience of homeless children is characterised by constant moving and the consequent loss of friends and belongings. Parents, teachers and children all agreed that in this context school attendance may provide the youngsters with some stability and predictability in their daily lives. School may also offer opportunities for the development of social skills and competence in contact and interaction with peers.