A blind homeless woman fears dying on the streets of Dublin this winter



[ad_1]

A blind homeless woman living in a tent said she fears dying on the streets this winter.

Rosemary Fearsaor-Hughes, disabled and with fibromyalgia, has been without permanent shelter for a decade.

The 37-year-old has 10% vision and relies on her guide dog Quilla to help her navigate the streets of Dublin.

He said that he has not been able to get emergency accommodation due to accessibility issues.

Rosemary told Dublin Live: “I’m not waiting for the cold snap that I know is coming.

“They could find me dead, no problem, especially if we get a sharp one like I suspect we will.”

She said she was “exhausted” struggling with the most basic human needs.

Rosemary added: “Toilets are a nightmare, showers are a nightmare, just having access to basic hygiene is a nightmare.

“Accessible accommodation for someone with a disability is something they don’t have. It’s just another layer of complication. “

He said the accommodation where he was previously staying “was not fit for purpose”, particularly during the pandemic.

Rosemary revealed: “The toilets were always broken, the showers were broken. There were four people per room. There is no privacy or dignity. Their basic human rights went out the window. Covid was a nightmare there.

“I try to get through things day by day.

“It’s literally just about dealing with problems as they arise … where the next meal will come from.”

Rosemary, who has no addiction problems, was previously in a semi-accessible home for the homeless.
installation in a room shared with two other women.

She said that she was threatened, could hear constant noises, had trouble sleeping, and that trafficking and drug use were rampant.

Rosemary added: “I felt like I was at higher risk [there] of what was in [previous accommodation].

“I would be limited to one room essentially due to accessibility issues.

“Even on the street, he would have more privacy, dignity and independence.”

A spokeswoman for the Dublin Regional Homeless Executive said they were “very aware” of Rosemary’s housing needs.

She added: “Romero [and her assistance dog Quilla] use emergency accommodation
intermittently, then decide to leave your accommodation.

“We are not aware of where Ms. Fearsaor-Hughes currently resides.

“She calls our Central Placement Service from time to time and is always treated professionally and with kindness and personal. [who know her] endeavor to help her. “



[ad_2]