Homelessness: challenges and opportunities in the “new normal”
| Date | 29 March 2024 |
| Pages | 1173-1182 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/MHSI-02-2024-0032 |
| Published date | 29 March 2024 |
| Subject Matter | Health & social care,Mental health,Social inclusion |
| Author | Angela Woods,Rebecca Lace,Joanne Dickinson,Ben Hughes |
Homelessness: challenges and
opportunities in the “new normal”
Angela Woods, Rebecca Lace, Joanne Dickinson and Ben Hughes
Abstract
Purpose –This paper –the final paper of a series of three –aims to discuss the implications of the
findings froma service user needs assessment of people experiencinghomelessness in the Northwest of
England. It will expand on the previouspaper by offering a more detailed analysis and discussion of the
identifiedkey themes and issues. The service user needs assessmentwas completed as part of a review
of local serviceprovision in the Northwest of England againstthe backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Design/methodology/approach –Semi-structured questionnaires were administered and used by
health-careprofessionals to collect data from individualsaccessing the Homelessand Vulnerable Adults
Service (HVAS) in Bolton. The questionnaires included a section exploring Adverse Childhood
Experiences. Datafrom 100 completed questionnaires were analysedto better understand the needs of
those accessingthe HVAS.
Findings –Multiple deprivations including extensive health and social care needs were identified
within the cohort. Meeting these complex needs was challenging for both service users and service
providers. This paper will explore key themes identified by the needs assessment and draw upon
further comments from those who participated in the data-gathering process. The paper discusses
the practicalities of responding to the complex needs of those with lived experience of
homelessness. It highlights how a coordinated partnership approach, using an integrated s ervice
delivery model can be both cost-effective and responsive to the needs of those oft en on the
margins of our society.
Research limitations/implications –Data collection during the COVID-19 pandemic p resented a number
of challenges. The collection period had to be extended whi lst patient care was prioritised. Quantitative
methods were used, however, this limited the opportunity for ser vice user involvement and feedback. Future
research could use qualitative methods to address this balance and use a more incl usive approach.
Practical implications –This study illustratesthat the needs of the homeless population are broad and
varied. Although the populationthemselves have developed different responsesto their situations, their
needs canonly be fully met by a co-ordinated, multi-agency, partnershipresponse. An integrated service
model can helpidentify, understand, and meet the needsof the whole population and individualswithin it
to improvehealthcare for a vulnerable population.
Social implications –This study highlighted new and important findings around the resilience of the
homeless populationand the significance of building protectivefactors to help combat the multiplicity of
social isolationwith both physical and mental healthproblems.
Originality/value –The discussion providesan opportunity to reflect on established views in relation to
the nature and scope of homelessness. The paper describes a contemporary approach to tackling
current issues faced by those experiencing homelessness in the current context of the COVID-19
pandemic. Recommendations for service improvements will include highlighting established good
practicesincluding embedding a more inclusive/participatory approach.
Keywords Homelessness, Social exclusion, Health inequalities, Mental health, Partnerships
Paper type Research paper
Background and introduction
According to data reported by The Homelessness Monitor in Engl and, there has been a
recent increase in the number of people sleeping rough, the proporti on of households at
risk of homelessness within 15 days and those placed in temporary accommodation
Angela Woods is based at
the School of Health and
Human Sciences,
University of Bolton, Bolton,
UK. Rebecca Lace is
based at the Bolton
Hospitals NHS Trust,
Bolton, UK.
Joanne Dickinson is based
at the ICSD, Bolton
Hospitals NHS Trust,
Bolton, UK. Ben Hughes is
based at the The School of
Health and Human
Sciences, University of
Bolton, Bolton, UK.
The authors received no
financial support for the
research, authorship and/or
publication of this article. The
authors wish to acknowledge
the contributions made by
those with lived experience
who completed the survey.
Recognition and thanks are
also given to those involved in
the delivery of services that
seek to improve the lives of
those who are homeless.
DOI 10.1108/MHSI-02-2024-0032 VOL. 28 NO. 6 2024,pp. 1173-1182, ©Emerald Publishing Limited, ISSN 2042-8308 jMENTAL HEALTH AND SOCIAL INCLUSION jPAGE1173
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