To break free from homelessness under the current circumstances in Slovakia is like climbing Mount Everest without an oxygen tank; it's possible, but very few people can do it, director of the NGO Against the Flow Sandra Tordová stated on Tuesday. “Only those who are unique, those who enjoy a unique sense of optimism, a unique belief in their own capabilities and resilience to overcome obstacles can get off the streets”, said Tordová, adding that such a thing is almost impossible for an ordinary person.
Tordová was speaking at a press conference organised as part of the Month without a Home project, which is aimed at drawing the attention of the broader public and authorities to the problems ailing people who end up on the streets. The director went on to say that the homeless move in a vicious circle, unable to find a way out. “In order to find a job, they need to have appropriate accommodation. In order to have accommodation, they need to have a job to pay for the accommodation”, said Tordová, whose NGO publishes the monthly magazine Nota Bene, which is sold on the streets by the homeless. Tordová added that even though some of them manage to find work, they have to face another problem, as their remuneration isn't enough to cover the rent, with a lack of financially accessible accommodation in Slovakia. “In addition, they have to deal with addiction and debts. Homeless people aren't in contact with the authorities; they don't draw social benefits and don't cost the state a cent. However, this means that their health insurance isn't covered and their debts [towards health insurers] can grow and amount to several thousands of euro”, said Tordová, adding that people on the streets find it very difficult to access medical treatment for this reason. Debts also hamper efforts to land a job, as immediately after they find one they become subject to financial claims. Organisations that work with the homeless have appealed to the Labour, Social Affairs and Family Ministry to set up a national programme aimed at dealing with the situation faced by the homeless. Such a programme should be used as a kind of manual for local government as to how to proceed in various crisis situations. Furthermore, the NGOs are asking the ministry to allocate financial resources to services for the homeless. “The most effective solution to this effect would involve financially accessible accommodation. As many as 85 percent of people who are placed in independent accommodation and receive support services set according to their individual needs don't end up on the street again”, said Tordová.
