Considered the founding father of South Africa's democracy, Mandela became an international figure when he endured 27 years in prison for fighting racial segregation.

CNN: Nelson Mandela back in hospital with lung infection

"My guess is that in terms of segregation and intimidation this has probably contributed between 10 and 15% to the homeless figure, " said Mr McDowell.

BBC: Rise in NI homelessness

Considered the founding father of South Africa's democracy, Mandela became an international figure when he endured 27 years in prison for fighting apartheid, the country's system of racial segregation.

CNN: Mandela 'responding positively' to treatment in hospital