The Controversial Tightening of Rules for Homeless Individuals’ Reference Addresses: Defenders Speak Out

2023-08-17 16:05:00

The rant of defenders of homeless people. In question, a circular which tightens the rules to obtain a “reference address”, an administrative address (at the CPAS or at a private individual) thanks to which the homeless can receive their mail and benefit from their rights (mutual insurance, salary, pensions…). « The reference address, for homeless people, is to be able to live somewhere in order to have a valid identity card, even if it does not pay for private accommodation “, explains Jean Peeters, president of the Front commun des SDF.

However, since the beginning of July, the rules for keeping this reference address have become much stricter. After six months, the person concerned has two options: either to leave there or to take up residence there. « Either you leave the accommodation, but then you find yourself on the street, you no longer have any home, no more identity card, no more pension, no more hospital… you no longer exist. Or you live with the private individual. But then you become cohabiting “says Jean Peeters.

And it is this status of cohabitant that poses the problem. Because the repercussions can be heavy for the landlord: reduction in unemployment or social integration income, change in taxes or even sharing of debts. The sector speaks of dramatic consequences. “ We are outraged, I am outraged! It would have been necessary to seek the opinion of the field associations. Let people live, and then they will find housing. If the government no longer wants reference addresses, let it find them accommodation at a reasonable price. “, deplores Jose Parades, member of the Brussels Union of the Homeless.

The associations deplore the lack of consultation from the federal government. They have also contacted lawyers to go before the Council of State and try to have the new circular canceled.

Reportage Camille Tang Quynh et Frederic De Henau.

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