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According to CSO figures, 896 families were homeless on census night including 1,726 children in those families - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1(a) - 2018
Question 1(a)
According to CSO figures, 896 families were homeless on census night including 1,726 children in those families. (i) Outline the housing requirements necessary to m... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:According to CSO figures, 896 families were homeless on census night including 1,726 children in those families - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1(a) - 2018
Step 1
Outline the housing requirements necessary to meet the needs of people who are homeless.
Answer
To effectively meet the needs of homeless individuals and families, the following housing requirements are essential:
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Basic Facilities: Accommodation should include essential amenities such as a bathroom or shower and proper cooking facilities, ensuring personal hygiene and the ability to prepare meals.
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Storage Options: Adequate space for storing personal belongings is crucial, allowing individuals to maintain a sense of ownership and security over their possessions.
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Privacy: Housing should ensure a degree of privacy, which could include a private bedroom or living area. This is vital for mental well-being and personal dignity.
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Accessibility: Homeless individuals often require access to local facilities, including health services, education, and employment opportunities. Therefore, housing should be located in areas with adequate transportation options and community services.
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Support Services: Ideally, housing should include access to social services and support networks to assist residents in reintegrating into society, including job training and mental health services.
Step 2
Give an informative account of the quality of accommodation provided in each of the following housing sectors: private housing sector / owner occupied.
Answer
The quality of accommodation in the private housing sector, specifically owner-occupied dwellings, can vary substantially depending on several factors:
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Construction Standards: Newer homes tend to have better construction standards compared to older homes, decreasing the incidence of poor living conditions. Frequent updates and renovations are often necessary, particularly if the owner is unable to afford these repairs.
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Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with building regulations (e.g., the Building Regulations - Building Act 1991) is critical. Homes that adhere to these standards typically have better insulation, energy-efficient features, and improved safety mechanisms.
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Living Conditions: The living conditions also depend on maintenance; well-maintained homes offer better environments, while poorly maintained homes pose health and safety risks. Essential utilities like heating, ventilation, and access to clean water must be present and functioning.
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Energy Efficiency: Properties that are well insulated and functional often receive a higher energy rating, which reflects the house's overall quality and efficiency.
Step 3
Give an informative account of the quality of accommodation provided in each of the following housing sectors: private rental sector.
Answer
In contrast to owner-occupied homes, the quality of accommodation in the private rental sector is regulated by specific legislation:
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Regulatory Framework: The Residential Tenancies Act 2004 establishes minimum standards for rental accommodations. This includes ensuring that the property is in a habitable condition and meets safety regulations.
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Quality Control: The quality of the accommodation depends on the availability of rental properties and the state of the housing market. Landlords are required to keep properties up to standard. However, oversight can be inconsistent, leading to variable living conditions.
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Landlord Responsibilities: Legislation mandates that landlords ensure properties are structurally sound and equipped with basic utilities such as water, heating, and electricity.
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Tenant Rights: Tenants are granted rights that allow them to live in a property that is safe and well-maintained. Disputes over maintenance often arise, which can affect the living quality if not properly managed.
Step 4
Discuss the importance of house building standards with reference to how building standards are regulated.
Answer
House building standards are crucial for a variety of reasons:
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Safety: Building standards ensure that homes are constructed to withstand various environmental and structural risks, providing safety for occupants and reducing the likelihood of accidents.
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Energy Efficiency: Standards set by regulations, such as the Building Energy Rating (BER), guide construction practices to promote energy efficiency. This helps reduce energy costs for homeowners and community energy consumption.
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Preservation of Quality: Regular inspections by authorities ensure compliance with the National House Building Guarantee Scheme, which sets high standards for construction. Certification indicating compliance reassures buyers about the quality of their investments.
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Legal Framework: Regulations set forth in the Building Regulations Act 1991 put forth legal obligations for builders, providing recourse for homeowners should they encounter issues related to construction quality. This serves to uphold public trust in housing.