Exploring ways to improve healthcare service access for people experiencing homelessness in Manchester, UK

Homelessness is a significant social issue in the UK, affecting the health and life chances of ∼320 000 people annually. This study aims to explore primary healthcare provision from the perspectives of people experiencing homelessness (PEH) in the Greater Manchester area. We conducted a qualitative multimethod study, including unstructured observations and semistructured interviews with 20 PEH across four homelessness day facilities in Greater Manchester during April-May 2023 and analysed data thematically using inductive coding. We generated five inductive themes consisting of PEH fears around communication, challenges navigating the health system, insufficient service signposting, travel as a barrier to healthcare access, and the crucial importance of outreach. The findings indicate that general practitioners can improve communication approaches, clarify pathways to care for PEH, and increase outreach services where feasible to help ensure PEH are better able to access needed services.