Integration of volunteers in Housing First - A strengthened practice for the homeless

This project explores and strengthens the involvement of volunteers in the municipal Housing First initiative for homeless individuals in the transition to their own homes through methodological development and research. The recent homelessness reform of 2023 introduces new demands on the social workers (bostøttemedarbejdere) and the involvement of volunteers in the challenging transition for individuals experiencing homelessness. As a result of the reform, homeless individuals are limited to a three-months stay at a shelter, pushing forward the ambition of a swift transition to permanent housing. Prior to the reform, extended time at shelters allowed for more opportunities for supporting the homeless residents and involving volunteers in this work. However, due to the reform, today, the social work is primarily to be carried out by municipal social workers in the setting of the formerly homeless peoples’ own homes. This shift places significant demands on both these professionals and on the volunteers, which requires a development of new methods for the involvement of volunteers. The project includes three municipalities and is based on a close collaboration between WeShelter (Fonden Missionen Blandt Hjemløse) and a research team from Roskilde University. The overarching purpose of this project is to actively contribute to creating a meaningful life for individuals who were once homeless within their own homes, reduce the risk homelessness and mitigate experiences of social isolation and loneliness. Moreover, the project seeks to generate new scientific knowledge and understanding of the challenges underlying the transition to post-homelessness.