Living without a permanent address presents countless challenges, particularly when it comes to accessing essential services like social welfare, healthcare, education, and employment. For people living in temporary accommodations such as cars, tents, or on friends’ couches, the lack of a reliable address can make everyday tasks feel nearly impossible. Recognizing this gap, An Post has launched a much-needed solution: the Address Point service. A Vital Resource for Those Without a Permanent Address
What is Address Point?
Address Point is a simple yet powerful service that allows individuals without a permanent address to generate a personal postal address. This address is linked to a local post office, where they can collect their mail. Whether it’s for receiving important letters, arranging medical appointments, applying for jobs, or staying connected with loved ones, having a reliable postal address can make a huge difference in someone’s life.
The process is straightforward: individuals can create their personal address online using a mobile phone or laptop. This address is based on the location of the post office they choose as their mail collection point. When mail arrives, they simply collect it by presenting a photo ID at the designated post office. And if someone moves to a different area, they can generate a new address tied to a different post office.
Why Address Point Matters
An address might seem like a small thing, but for those experiencing homelessness or living in temporary conditions, it can be the key to accessing vital services. Without an address, it’s nearly impossible to apply for social welfare benefits, register with healthcare providers, or even get a driver’s license. The Address Point service helps bridge this gap, offering a secure and reliable address that can be used for official correspondence.
Debbie Byrne, Managing Director of An Post Retail, emphasized the importance of this service: “We are keenly aware of the difficulties which can result from people not having a reliable, secure mailing address or letter collection point to access vital services we all take for granted and in looking for a job.”
Francis Doherty, Head of Communications at Peter McVerry Trust, echoed this sentiment, stating that having a secure address can make a real difference in people’s lives, from securing medical appointments to staying in touch with family.
How to Access Address Point
Address Point is available nationwide, with almost 200 post offices participating. An Post has also partnered with various charities and service providers, including Dublin Simon, Focus Ireland, and Peter McVerry Trust, to ensure that those in need are aware of this service.
For anyone living without a permanent address, Address Point offers a lifeline—providing a practical and accessible way to stay connected and access essential services.
If you or someone you know could benefit from this service, visit your local post office or access An Post’s website to learn more about setting up an Address Point today. A Vital Resource for Those Without a Permanent Address