Question 1

Will I lose my current accommodation because of this?

Accepted Answer

No, your current host just needs to indicate if they wish to transition to IRC support or if they wish to continue independently. We encourage guests to have this conversation with their hosts. The IRC are available to address any queries or concerns.

If your host chooses to proceed independently but if you have any questions or need support, you can always reach out to the IRC:

• Email: migrationcrisis@redcross.ie (mailto:migrationcrisis@redcross.ie)(put “HIH Placement” in the email subject line)
 • Phone: Call the Pledge Hotline at 1800 753 343 during business hours. Your query will be assessed and directed to the appropriate support.

It's also important to note that ARP payments are administered solely by the Department of Social Protection, so this change will not affect those payments.

Question 2

What if my host asks me to leave?

Accepted Answer

If your host asks you to leave, the IRC should be your first point of contact for support. They may be able to help you find a new match, but this is handled on a case-by-case basis and the IRC will be able to help you plan your next steps. Please note, if you arrived in Ireland before 14th March 2024, you are entitled to return to UCTAT accommodation and present to Citywest. Please contact the IRC who will discuss possible next steps with you.

You can also seek guidance from local authority integration teams (https://www.localgov.ie/lait-contact-details)(https://www.localgov.ie/lait-contact-details) or support organisations

To reach the IRC, you can:

• Email: migrationcrisis@redcross.ie (mailto:migrationcrisis@redcross.ie)(put “HIH Placement” in the email subject line)
 • Phone: Call the Pledge Hotline at 1800 753 343 during business hours. Your query will be assessed and directed to the appropriate support.

We also have resources that might be helpful in navigating discussions and making plans around moving on:

For Hosts: https://www.helpingirishhosts.com/moving-on-for-hosts(https://www.helpingirishhosts.com/moving-on-for-hosts)
For guests: https://www.helpingirishhosts.com/moving-on-guests(https://www.helpingirishhosts.com/moving-on-guests)

Question 3

Who will help me if I have problems with my host?

Accepted Answer

IRC is responsible for ongoing support. You can also seek guidance from local authority integration teams (https://www.localgov.ie/lait-contact-details)(https://www.localgov.ie/lait-contact-details) or support organisations.

To reach the IRC, you can:

• Email: migrationcrisis@redcross.ie (mailto:migrationcrisis@redcross.ie)(put “HIH Placement” in the email subject line)
 • Phone: Call the Pledge Hotline at 1800 753 343 during business hours. Your query will be assessed and directed to the appropriate support.

Question 4

Can I still be matched with a new host after April 30?

Accepted Answer

Yes, future matching will be managed by the IRC, and their process for making new matches will remain in place. We recommend contacting the IRC by email directly if you’re looking for a new host and you will be signposted to their accommodation request form. 
To reach the IRC, you can:
 • Email: migrationcrisis@redcross.ie

Question 5

Are there still pathways for hosts and guests to mediate issues?

Accepted Answer

While HIH will no longer be involved in formal mediation, the IRC may be able to provide conflict resolution support.  Please note that this support requires the consent of all parties (guests and hosts).

To reach the IRC, you can:
 • Email: migrationcrisis@redcross.ie(mailto:migrationcrisis@redcross.ie)

Question 6

I found my host myself on Facebook, how do I get support?

Accepted Answer

If you found your match on Facebook or through any other informal way (not through an official programme like the Irish Red Cross, HIH, PMVT, or a Local Authority), you are part of what's called independent hosting.
Unfortunately, there’s no formal support system specifically for independent hosts and guests.

However, the IRC have a mechanism to help formalise private arrangements and independent hosting. If you would like to formalise your placement, please speak with your host and connect with the IRC directly. If your host would not like to formalise under the IRC but you need assistance, please contact the IRC directly.

• Access resources on the HIH website, including guidance on common scenarios and links to helpful services.
 • Contact local support organisations or legal services if you need help with conflict resolution or housing issues.

HIH continues to advocate for better systems to support all hosts and guests, including those who found their match independently.

Question 7

I’m really annoyed that HIH is ending. What do I do?

Accepted Answer

We’re heartbroken too. It’s really hard to see our services coming to an end, but we always knew this funding wouldn’t last forever.

If you’re feeling disappointed and want to help, there are a few things you can do:

• Complete our feedback survey: Your thoughts matter, and it helps us show the impact of what we’ve built together HERE

• Give us a testimonial: Tell me now or email hello@helpingirishhosts.com

• Talk to your local TD: Let them know why services like ours are so important.

• Write to the Ministers or the Taoiseach: Share your story and why this work matters.

• Volunteer: As we transition to a volunteer model, we’ll need all the help we can get. Anyone willing to lend their time, skills, or expertise is more than welcome.

It’s frustrating, but your voice matters. The more people speak up, the harder we can push for real change. And thank you - just knowing you care means the world.

HIH's Transition from the Consortium

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