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Article
Publication date: 29 March 2024

Angela Woods, Rebecca Lace, Joanne Dickinson and Ben Hughes

This paper – the final paper of a series of three – aims to discuss the implications of the findings from a service user needs assessment of people experiencing homelessness in…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper – the final paper of a series of three – aims to discuss the implications of the findings from a service user needs assessment of people experiencing homelessness in the Northwest of England. It will expand on the previous paper by offering a more detailed analysis and discussion of the identified key themes and issues. The service user needs assessment was completed as part of a review of local service provision in the Northwest of England against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured questionnaires were administered and used by health-care professionals to collect data from individuals accessing the Homeless and Vulnerable Adults Service (HVAS) in Bolton. The questionnaires included a section exploring Adverse Childhood Experiences. Data from 100 completed questionnaires were analysed to better understand the needs of those accessing the 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 service delivery model can be both cost-effective and responsive to the needs of those often on the margins of our society.

Research limitations/implications

Data collection during the COVID-19 pandemic presented a number of challenges. The collection period had to be extended whilst patient care was prioritised. Quantitative methods were used, however, this limited the opportunity for service user involvement and feedback. Future research could use qualitative methods to address this balance and use a more inclusive approach.

Practical implications

This study illustrates that the needs of the homeless population are broad and varied. Although the population themselves have developed different responses to their situations, their needs can only be fully met by a co-ordinated, multi-agency, partnership response. An integrated service model can help identify, understand, and meet the needs of the whole population and individuals within it to improve healthcare for a vulnerable population.

Social implications

This study highlighted new and important findings around the resilience of the homeless population and the significance of building protective factors to help combat the multiplicity of social isolation with both physical and mental health problems.

Originality/value

The discussion provides an 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 practices including embedding a more inclusive/participatory approach.

Details

Mental Health and Social Inclusion, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-8308

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 July 2023

Or Hareven, Tamar Kron, David Roe and Danny Koren

The purpose of this study is to gain deeper understanding of the experience of PSW and pathways to recover. Prolonged social withdrawal (PSW) among young people has been widely…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to gain deeper understanding of the experience of PSW and pathways to recover. Prolonged social withdrawal (PSW) among young people has been widely reported; however, the voice of those who withdraw is rarely heard. Illuminating these firsthand experiences is important as the phenomenon becomes widespread, calling for increased attention and creative solutions to promote recovery processes and re-inclusion in society.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducted nine in-depth semi-structured interviews with young people who have been reclusive for 2–19 years and inquired about their perspectives and experiences around times of PSW and beyond. These data were analyzed and categorized according to three main areas: factors contributing to PSW, subjective experiences and general functioning during PSW and processes involved in coming out of PSW. This study presents the main findings and illustrates them using a case of a young man in PSW for 19 years.

Findings

The findings reveal that young people may turn to social withdrawal in response to varied personal and familial challenges, and often experience intense loneliness and psychic pain. Attempts to cope and recover from withdrawal involve inner motivation combined with support from significant others and a strong therapeutic alliance with professionals.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to report findings from in-depth interviews with people who spent very long periods in PSW, and accordingly it contributes to the growing body of knowledge on this phenomenon. Based on this unique firsthand perspective, the authors propose potential guidelines for caregivers and mental health professionals trying to help people in PSW to reintegrate into society.

Details

Mental Health and Social Inclusion, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-8308

Keywords

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