A framework for an Isle of Man Homelessness Prevention and Support Act
Background
Nature of homelessness on the Island
Homelessness exists across the world. It is a complex social challenge that has profound implications for communities, services, organisations, governments, as well as the individuals at risk of or experiencing it.
What has become the stereotypical image of individuals experiencing homelessness, is that of people sleeping on the streets. It is now widely understood that homelessness goes beyond this image and has many other forms. Homelessness can be hidden, such as sleeping on a friend’s sofa, living in unsuitable or unsafe accommodation, or individuals facing eviction for example.
The Isle of Man is not exempt from having people who are facing homelessness within its community. In December 2023, the Island’s first Homelessness Strategy 2023-2028, went before Tynwald and was approved. View in appendix A (opens in a new tab).
The strategy is designed to address complex issues associated with homelessness and housing instability. It includes a set of coordinated actions aimed at preventing homelessness, providing immediate assistance to those experiencing it and offering long-term solutions for housing stability. This strategy involves a strong collaboration between government agencies, third sector organisations and individuals with lived experiences of homelessness.
The strategy comprises five focus areas:
- Clear Pathways - Easy access to support services
- Legislation - Long lasting statutory legacy
- Core Data - Ensure core data to support provision to services
- Needs Assessment - Process to review the needs of those who require support
- Prevention - Evidence informed
Progress of the Homelessness Strategy
Significant progress has been made during the first year of the Homelessness Strategy Action Plan and Implementation Plan and several actions within the plan have been completed.
Progress has been made standing up a dedicated Manx Care team. Two new Lead Practitioners for the Wellbeing Partnership’s and four Community Support Workers commenced their roles in early 2025. The Community Workers commenced employment in January 2025 and the Partnership Leads in February 2025. Further work is needed for the service to have its greatest impact.
The focus for this year is embedding the work already completed and establishing a more sustainable foundation for the Homelessness Pathway and Emergency Accommodation Service. This includes determining the ongoing funding and placing the services on a statutory footing.
Scale of homelessness on the Island
It is hard to determine the exact scale of homelessness on the Island. However, the Homelessness Pathway delivered by Manx Care and funded by the Housing and Communities Board via Cabinet Office provides some insights.
From July 2024 to June 2025, Manx Care provided 9,139 bed nights in temporary accommodation to people presenting as homeless. There were on average 32 individual clients per month, new and recurring.