Robust, Evidence-Backed Interventions

The immensely complex and intersectional issue of homelessness requires an approach which is nuanced, adaptive and evidence-based. Using the best research available, we have selected the programmes most effective at tackling rough sleeping.

Our Priorities:

• Fostering trust and rapport: Chronic rough sleepers frequently feel abandoned and disenfranchised. We help restore their confidence with “Assertive Outreach” so they can feel confident in turning to us for support.
• Tackling Mental Health: Rough sleepers are disproportionately affected by severe mental health issues such as bipolar disorder. These must be treated as soon as possible to help them with moving forward.
• Promoting Positive Living: Our Flexi-Budget scheme empowers clients to make new lifestyle choices, revive old hobbies and by offering them a fund to help them fulfil their ambitions.
• Cultivating Independence: Many rough sleepers are trapped in cycles of poverty through receipt of inadequate benefits and disengagement with support services. We make them fully aware them of their rights and support them with claims to develop self-sufficiency.

The Evidence Base:

• Personal choice and person-led programmes are key to making a client’s recovery their own.
• Outreach should be assertive, flexible, persistent and tailored to each clients needs.
• “Flexi-Budgets” are highly effective in reducing harmful behaviour and restoring confidence.
• Above all, Housing First has the greatest evidence base demonstrating it as the most effective solution to many cases of chronic rough sleeping.