Northern Ireland has a higher level of homelessness than either England or Scotland.

This is one of the findings of a report being presented to members of the Northern Ireland Assembly on Tuesday.

The Agenda for Action document, produced by the Simon Community, reveals that about one in every 100 people are now homeless in the province.

Last year, 6,000 single people presented themselves as homeless, with over 4,000 of them approaching the Simon Community directly.

The Simon Community is a cross-community voluntary organisation which works to protect the interests of this sector of society.

Its report highlights the problems faced by homeless people in the province and outlines a series of practical measures which are urgently required to help combat the crisis.

Alleviating homelessness

Carol O'Bryan, chief executive of Simon Community Northern Ireland, said: "In light of the forthcoming elections it is essential that the needs of homeless people are not overlooked."

She said the group was pleased that assembly members were going to consider the report and its "seven achievable goals which will make a significant inroads into alleviating homelessness".

The Simon Community's Agenda for Action report also highlights the complexity of homelessness in the province.

It says that whilst more affordable and accessible accommodation is an important parts of solving the problem, accommodation on its own is not enough.

Representatives from the main political parties are to attend the launch of the report at Stormont.