Substance use and homelessness: a longitudinal interview study conducted during COVID-19 with implications for policy and practice

Original research
by
Neale, Joanne et al

Release Date

2022

Geography

UK

Language of Resource

English

Full Text Available

No

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

No

Peer Reviewed

Yes

Objective

This paper aims to inform policy and practice by analysing changes in the tobacco, alcohol and illicit drug use of people experiencing homelessness.

Findings/Key points

Findings indicate that various interventions and accommodation models may benefit people who are homeless and using substances. An initiative that combined shelter and basic amenities, pharmacological treatment, psychosocial support, and space where substances were not available and other people using substances could be avoided resulted in an overall reduction in substance use amongst those accommodated.

Design/methods

Longitudinal study: 310 interviews with 34 people

Keywords

Housing
About PWUD
Wrap-around services
Social services
Barriers and enablers