Homelessness: partnerships and approaches to tackling complex needs

Abstract

Purpose This paper – the first of three – aims to explore some of the complex physical and mental health needs of those experiencing homelessness. It will act as a leader to the other articles by establishing the nature of the problem and offer a rationale for carrying out a service user needs assessment as part of a review of local service provision in the North West of England against the backdrop of the current COVID-19 epidemic. Design/methodology/approach There are a number of complex social and health inequalities often experienced by those who are homeless. Effectively tackling these requires a co-ordinated multi-agency response to both prevent and tackle the harms associated with being and becoming homeless. Findings Partnership working offers the best opportunity to meet the complex needs of those experiencing homelessness. The current delivery model being actioned in the North West of England highlights the importance of the links between statutory and non-statutory services. An ongoing service user needs assessment will further help to highlight contemporary issues faced by those experiencing homelessness and those providing services in the context of the COVID-19 epidemic. Social implications Future papers as part of this series of three will consider the implications of social exclusion and barriers to accessing services faced on a day-to-day basis by those experiencing homelessness. Originality/value The opportunity to reflect on established views in relation to the nature and scope of homelessness. It will consider the implications exclusion from society and service provision that this group face on a day-to-day basis. The paper will describe a contemporary approach to tackling current issues faced by those experiencing homelessness in the current context of the COVID-19 epidemic.