Addressing the needs of homeless women with mental health problems.

Abstract

Numbers of homeless women with mental health problems have risen dramatically in recent years. Yet hostels may be reluctant or unable to offer them accommodation; staff can feel unsupported and ill-prepared, and relations with statutory mental health services can be strained. CLARE CROFT-WHITE and GEORGIE PARRY-CROOKE report on services for women offered by London direct access hostels, and highlight a number of areas needing action.