Tallaght health report reveals progress and challenges 

A new report on the health and wellbeing of Tallaght residents reveals both impressive progress and concerning challenges that must be addressed in the coming years. 

The Health Assets and Needs Assessment (HANA) study, launched last Thursday (13th) at Tallaght Community Library, offers a detailed snapshot of the community’s health landscape, covering significant trends and issues since the last assessment in 2014.

The report, led by Trinity College Dublin in partnership with the Adelaide Health Foundation and the Health Service Executive (HSE), draws from surveys of 274 randomly selected households and 755 residents, providing valuable insights into both the improvements made and the gaps that persist.  

The findings reflect many positive trends in the community, from healthier lifestyles to improved access to healthcare.  

However, the study also reveals pressing concerns, such as rising mental health issues, escalating housing costs, and safety fears, which continue to challenge residents’ wellbeing.   

The HANA report highlights several areas where Tallaght has made significant strides.  

Smoking rates, for example, have dropped dramatically, from 69% in 2001 to just 32% in 2024, illustrating the success of public health campaigns both locally and nationally.  

The proportion of residents who engage in strenuous exercise has more than doubled since 2014, rising from 2.7% to 5.8%, reflecting a growing interest in physical activity across all levels.   

Another bright spot is the growing educational attainment in Tallaght. 

The percentage of residents with a third-level qualification has increased from 6% in 2001 to an impressive 35% in 2024, helping many gain better job prospects and improving their quality of life.

This educational gain is complemented by greater use of public recreational spaces, with 98% of residents expressing appreciation for local parks and community areas.  

The report also points to improved healthcare access.

Nearly half of the residents (47%) visited Tallaght University Hospital in the past year, a significant increase from 2014.

This uptick reflects the expansion of healthcare facilities and services in the area, making it easier for residents to access necessary treatments and medical tests.

Additionally, long-term homeownership has increased, with 28% of residents living in their homes for over 30 years—compared to just 3% in 2001—suggesting greater stability in the housing market.  

Despite these positive developments, the HANA report highlights several ongoing challenges that need urgent attention.

Mental health remains a significant concern, with nearly 70% of residents reporting stress in the past year, an increase from 59% in 2001. 

Financial strain is identified as a major contributor to this rising stress, with residents feeling the pressure of rising living costs, especially in the face of increasing private rental rates and a lack of affordable housing.  

Loneliness is another issue that affects a sizable portion of the community.

While 60% of residents rarely feel lonely, 29% experience loneliness “some of the time,” and 10% often feel isolated, underscoring the need for greater social support and community engagement.  

Access to healthcare is also a growing concern.

One in three residents with chronic conditions is on a waiting list for care, and a quarter of households lack private health insurance or a GMS card.

The cost of healthcare is a barrier for many, with 31% of residents reporting that they have delayed or skipped medical treatment due to financial constraints.  

Perhaps most alarmingly, the report finds that community safety is a major concern.

Over 70% of residents feel unsafe due to an increase in antisocial behavior and crime.

This sense of insecurity is deterring residents from engaging in outdoor activities, which are vital for both physical and mental health.

The perception of danger in public spaces is dampening the social fabric of the community, with many feeling hesitant to use local parks or even walk in their neighborhoods.  

The escalating cost of private rental accommodation in Tallaght is another pressing issue.

Since 2001, private rental rates have more than tripled, with nearly 14% of residents now renting privately compared to just 4% in 2001.

This surge in rental prices is contributing to financial strain and uncertainty for many families, particularly in an area that has historically seen lower homeownership rates.  

While the HANA report presents a clear picture of Tallaght’s health and wellbeing, it also sets the stage for action.

The community is already taking steps to address the findings of the report.

A recent workshop attended by 50 local residents discussed the key next steps, focusing on tackling mental health challenges, improving healthcare access, and addressing the housing crisis.

Among the key recommendations is the need for more accessible mental health services, increased availability of GPs, and the development of chronic disease management hubs.  

Healthcare leaders have also pledged to act on the findings.

John Kelly, Interim CEO of Tallaght University Hospital, expressed his commitment to using the data to help identify areas of success and areas where further improvements are needed.

He added, “As part of our new Hospital Strategy, we will be looking at this data to ensure equitable healthcare access for all people in our community.”  

Professor Catherine Darker, lead author of the report, emphasized the urgency for action, particularly regarding rising mental health challenges, healthcare affordability, and community safety.

“While progress has been made, there is no time to waste in addressing these growing concerns,” she said.  

Marian Quinn, CEO of the Childhood Development Initiative, highlighted another key issue: volunteering.

Only one in ten Tallaght residents currently volunteer for community initiatives, a number that needs to increase for the community to thrive.

“We need to support people to volunteer,” Quinn said. “It has benefits for both the individual and the community at large.”  

The HANA report provides a roadmap for tackling Tallaght’s health and wellbeing challenges, and experts are optimistic that with continued collaboration and a community-driven approach, significant improvements can be made.

As Brian Kearney, the HSE’s Head of Primary Care in Tallaght, put it, “By working together—residents, health services, community organizations, funders, and policymakers—we can turn this evidence into real, meaningful impact.”  

With a clear set of priorities and actionable steps, Tallaght is poised to address its challenges and continue its journey toward a healthier, safer, and more connected community.