Harm reduction in a Norwegian housing first project: a qualitative study of the treatment providers’ practice

Abstract

Purpose Little is known about how harm reduction is practiced in Norwegian Housing First (HF) projects. This study’s aim was to explore, describe, and interpret how providers apply a harm reduction approach within a housing project focused on individuals who are homeless with co-morbid substance use and mental health problems. Design/methodology/approach This qualitative study was part of a larger evaluation study of a three-year HF project in a Norwegian municipality. Data were collected using four multi-stage focus groups with five providers working in the HF-project. Focus group interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. Findings Analysis resulted in three main themes: ‘Letting the service user sit in the driver's seat’, ‘We don’t follow service provision contracts, we do everything’, and ‘Collaborating with the local community’. Research limitations/implications There is a need to develop increased knowledge about service users’ experiences within the harm reduction app...