Staffordshire University logo
STORE - Staffordshire Online Repository

Having a voice: A collaborative research project exploring the challenges and assets of people experiencing homelessness

MASSIE, Rachel, MACHIN, Richard, MCCORMACK, Fiona and KURTH, Judy (2018) Having a voice: A collaborative research project exploring the challenges and assets of people experiencing homelessness. Journal of Integrated Care. ISSN 1476-9018

[img] Text
Having a voice a collaborative research project exploring the challenges and assets of people experiencing homelessness.docx - AUTHOR'S ACCEPTED Version (default)
Available under License All Rights Reserved.

Download (50kB)

Abstract or description

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to understand the lived experience of people who have experienced homelessness and street activity, and professional stakeholders’ views about the challenges faced by this client group. The study sought to identify measures to improve the current situation for both individuals experiencing homelessness and professionals working with them.

Design/methodology/approach
Peer researchers with lived experience of multiple and complex needs conducted semi-structured interviews/surveys with 18 participants (eight individuals experiencing homelessness and street activity and ten professional stakeholders). The authors of the paper conducted a thematic analysis of the data.

Findings
This paper offers insights into both the current challenges and assets for people who are or have been homeless in an urban setting. Key findings include the need for a coordinated partnership approach to address pathways to support, and the importance of developing opportunities for meaningful activity and building on local resources including giving homeless people a voice. These findings are discussed within the context of current policy (Housing First) and legislation (Homelessness Reduction Act 2017) and the impact on integrated care for people who have experienced homelessness.

Research limitations/implications
The views explored in this study are specific to one city centre in the West Midlands; thus, generalisability may be limited.

Originality/value
This study presents a participatory research approach with peer researchers exploring the perspective of individuals experiencing homelessness and wider stakeholders. The findings of this research are considered with reference to the provisions of the HRA 2017.

Item Type: Article
Additional Information: 'This article is © Emerald Group Publishing and permission has been granted for this version to appear here (https://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/full/10.1108/JICA-02-2018-0017). Emerald does not grant permission for this article to be further copied/distributed or hosted elsewhere without the express permission from Emerald Group Publishing Limited.'
Faculty: School of Health and Social Care > Social Work and Social Welfare
Depositing User: Richard MACHIN
Date Deposited: 14 Sep 2018 12:14
Last Modified: 24 Feb 2023 13:52
URI: https://eprints.staffs.ac.uk/id/eprint/4738

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item

DisabledGo Staffordshire University is a recognised   Investor in People. Sustain Staffs
Legal | Freedom of Information | Site Map | Job Vacancies
Staffordshire University, College Road, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST4 2DE t: +44 (0)1782 294000