Stability versus progress: finding an effective model of supported housing for formerly homeless people with mental health needs

Tools

Bowpitt, G. ORCID: 0000-0002-0554-9444 and Jepson, M., 2007. Stability versus progress: finding an effective model of supported housing for formerly homeless people with mental health needs. Social and Public Policy Review, 1 (2). ISSN 1752-704X

Preview

Text
195333_2019 Bowpitt Publisher.pdf
Download (97kB) | Preview

Abstract

Finding an effective model of support that enables homeless people with mental health needs to sustain accommodation has presented a continuous challenge to both policy makers and practitioners. This article is based on a study of a residential hostel for formerly homeless men with a variety of mental health conditions in a Midlands city. The hostel was selected because it appeared to work in terms of anecdotal evidence of reduced hospital re-admissions and engagement with support services. By studying the views, experiences and perspectives of all stakeholders, the research sought to understand what was distinctive about the hostel, what worked well and for whom. The findings revealed that three things were of particular importance to stakeholders: residents’ willingness to engage with support services; increased stability in residents’ lives; and increased independence. A common element in the factors that contributed to the hostel’s success against these criteria was the sense of community between staff and residents, which was maintained following moves to independent accommodation. The policy implications for the long-term sustainability of this model will be explored in the conclusion.

Item Type:	Journal article
Publication Title:	Social and Public Policy Review
Creators:	Bowpitt, G. and Jepson, M.
Publisher:	University of Plymouth Press
Place of Publication:	Plymouth
Date:	2007
Volume:	1
Number:	2
ISSN:	1752-704X
Divisions:	Schools > School of Social Sciences
Record created by:	EPrints Services
Date Added:	09 Oct 2015 11:09
Last Modified:	09 Jun 2017 13:51
URI:	https://irep.ntu.ac.uk/id/eprint/23617