John Pett, 70, Highlights Older Homelessness as Dublin Simon Reports 4,000 Supported in 2024

John Pett, 70, a photographer originally from Birmingham, has experienced homelessness intermittently for eight years since his marriage ended in 1996 and subsequent private rentals became insecure. He describes homelessness as particularly vulnerable for older individuals due to health issues and medication needs. Pett has faced various challenges, including landlords selling properties, disputes among housemates, and overcrowding attempts.

Currently, Pett resides in supported accommodation at Riversdale House in west Dublin, provided by Dublin Simon. This facility houses 20 men and women over 55 with health and mobility challenges, offering a safe space and mental clarity. He hopes for a «life beyond this».

His story coincides with Dublin Simon’s 2025 annual report, released Wednesday, which states the charity supported over 4,000 people in 3,078 households last year. Their outreach team recorded 10,835 interactions with rough sleepers, a 29 percent increase from 2024. The charity also opened 19 new homes in Crumlin, Dublin, bringing its total housing stock to 781.

Department of Housing data shows 265 people aged 65 or older were in emergency accommodation in April, with 146 in Dublin. This is an increase from 244 and 137, respectively, in April 2025, and significantly higher than the 80 people (39 in Dublin) in April 2016. Pett emphasizes the emotional and physical toll of homelessness and foresees more older people facing this situation due to housing affordability issues.