Housing First does not end social isolation, study finds

A study of Reykjavik’s Housing First programme found that stable housing does not automatically bring social connections or a sense of belonging, mbl.is reported. The research also highlights the importance of ongoing, individual support and the location of accommodation.

The programme, used by Reykjavik City to support homeless people with extensive and complex service needs, aims to promote participation and social inclusion by providing stability, safety, calm and independence.

Social worker Ólöf Brynja Aradóttir presented the findings at an open symposium on homelessness at Reykjavik City Hall. Her master’s research, titled “From housing to inclusion: Housing First residents’ experiences of social status and participation”, is based on seven semi-structured interviews with people using the service.

The interviews were analysed thematically and revealed four main themes: the effect of housing on residents’ lives, social isolation, the transition from stigma and marginalisation towards inclusion, and relationships with service providers as a substitute for inclusion.

Participants described feeling isolated. “My social situation is bad and nobody visits me, except for one person, really, and the VoR team and others who have helped me,” one said. Others described themselves as “a complete loner” and “very socially isolated”.

The research also found that location matters and that consistent, tailored support is important. One participant said the location helped a great deal, while another said: “I don’t feel safe here, I don’t feel comfortable. I feel… I spend as little time here as I can.”

Participants emphasised the value of the VoR team and other service relationships. “I’m grateful, and they’re good people, very good people,” one said. “They’re not doing this just because they get paid. You can feel it. They work from the heart.”

The findings also point to a need for focused public discussion, greater tolerance and action against prejudice. One participant said people kept their distance despite the person doing nothing wrong, and had only recently begun to notice their efforts.