Tus Nua Apartments is the first service of its kind in Ireland supporting women leaving prison. Tus Nua is co-funded by the Irish Government and the European Social Fund as part of the ESF Programme for Employability, Inclusion and Learning 2014-2020. Tus Nua was established by Depaul as a result of research and visits to prisons in Dublin by the Guild of St. Philip Neri, and a St. Vincent de Paul conference, who recognised an acute need for programmes to assist women released from prison in their transition to independent living in the community.
Tus Nua accommodates 15 women in single rooms for up to 6 months. Each room is furnished and contains a kitchenette. All residents have access to communal spaces and the garden. Each resident is appointed a keyworker. Together they identify a support plan for their stay which covers life skills, budgeting, alcohol harm reduction, detox access, and physical and mental health support.
The service aims to prevent the risk of re-offending by supporting women to recognise their short-term and long-term needs upon leaving prison. The support offered also includes learning life skills and identifying opportunities, to help assist residents to live independently upon leaving Tus Nua. It is also vital that the women are encouraged to take a positive role in their community.
The mission of Tus Nua is to provide women, upon leaving Dóchas, with safe housing and a positive environment.
Tus Nua service is situated in the Dublin 11 area.
Tus Nua is run in partnership with the Irish Government and the European Social Fund. Close relationships also exist with the Probation Service in Ireland and Dóchas Prison.
Referrals are accepted through Dóchas Prison and from the wider community through the Probation Service in Ireland.
Email: tusnua.lmt@depaulcharity.net
