The effectiveness of a service for helping destitute men

The effectiveness of a voluntary organization which aimed to help destitute men contacted by means of a 'soup run' was evaluated. The assessment was carried out in stages. At the end of each stage results were discussed with the organization and a set of recommendations for further action put forward. At the end of the first stage, it was agreed that the organization's aim should be restricted to attempting to help men settle in one of its houses (staffed by young volunteer workers) for a period of at least three months. A number of recommendations intended to achieve this result were unsuccessful. Following the setting up of a night shelter, it was observed that many men attended regularly. An assessment procedure was instituted which resulted in the selection of men who did settle in the houses for long periods, so much so that no further admissions became possible.