Updated Accommodation Refusals Policy for BOTPs

An accommodation refusals policy is in operation for all accommodation centres provided by the Ukraine Response Team of the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. This policy applies to all Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs). Under this policy BOTPs receive one offer of suitable accommodation only.

The Refusals Policy applies to all short-term temporary accommodation including serviced accommodation, designated accommodation centres, offers of pledges, vacant homes and Rapid Build Housing.

All BOTPs requiring assistance with accommodation will be offered suitable short-term accommodation by the State. The type of accommodation, geographic location and duration of stay will depend on what is available at that time. The decision of the Department, in terms of its offer of accommodation and its suitability is final.

The Department will do its best to take account of individual needs such as disability or other medical requirements. However, due to the shortage of suitable accommodation at any point in time, this may not be possible.

If you refuse an offer of suitable accommodation, you will be advised that no further offers will be made by the State. You will have chosen to source your own accommodation. The Department cannot provide alternative accommodation to people for reasons of employment, school, family reunification or other non-medical reasons.

If you refuse an offer of accommodation, you will be asked to vacate any temporary stay over facility or short-term emergency accommodation with immediate effect.

In such circumstances, and at all times, people have the option to secure accommodation privately and may be able to secure comprehensive social welfare payments and rent supplement.