The overall aim of this report was to assess the nature, extent and context of drug use among people who are homeless in Ireland. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative methodologies.

A total of 355 individuals experiencing homelessness agreed to participate in the survey questionnaire element of the study. The majority were from the Dublin homeless population (70%), with the remaining 30% recruited from Cork, Galway and Limerick. Personal drug use (19%) was cited as the second most common reason for becoming homeless. Thirteen percent reported personal alcohol use. The majority of those experiencing homelessness first used drugs before becoming homeless (87%). Those that used drugs before becoming homeless reported a younger age of first drug use.

Personal drug use (n=67; 19%) was cited as the second most common reason for becoming homeless. Thirteen percent reported personal alcohol use (n=44). Alcohol use as a primary reason for becoming homeless was higher in Limerick and Galway (22% and 17% respectively) in comparison to 11% in both Dublin and Cork. The majority of those experiencing homelessness first used drugs before becoming homeless (87%). Those that used drugs before becoming homeless reported a younger age of first drug use. (15 v 24 years).