How Do People Who Are Homeless Find Out about Local Health and Social Care Services: A Mixed Method Study.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Social Care Research
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Homelessness is a significant issue in the UK and globally, leading to premature mortality.
• People experiencing homelessness face considerable health disparities.
• Access to ongoing health and social care support is critical for this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how individuals experiencing homelessness identify and locate appropriate health and social care services.
• To understand the barriers faced by homeless individuals in accessing support.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods study was conducted with individuals who are currently or have previously experienced homelessness.
• Quantitative data collected via surveys (n=100) and qualitative data from focus groups/interviews (n=16).
• Study conducted in an urban area in southwest England with high rates of homelessness.

Main Results:

• 90% of participants reported poor health.
• Access to healthcare and wellbeing services (housing, food) was problematic, with reliance on third-sector charities.
• Systemic, individual, and cultural barriers hinder service access, with information often shared via word-of-mouth.

Conclusions:

• There is a need to review how information on local health and wellbeing services is disseminated to homeless populations.
• Addressing health inequities requires improved strategies for connecting homeless individuals with necessary support.
• Enhanced information provision can help mitigate barriers to accessing care.