Supporting the Most Vulnerable - Homelessness Research

A huge gap exists in service provision for the homeless/rough sleepers who, due to living circumstances, chronic health conditions, alcohol and other drugs (AOD) and mental health issues, etc., are at a heightened risk for contracting COVID-19 and experiencing adverse outcomes. Wungening Aboriginal Corporation (Wungening) and the National Drug Research Institute (NDRI), Curtin University have collaborated on several research projects in the past which have culminated in resources for the sector. Once again, we are collaborating on this project to:

1. Identify barriers to engagement with temporary accommodation
2. Identify the needs of this cohort during times of additional crisis, such as a pandemic/lockdown
3. Develop an understanding of the lived experience of this cohort during the crisis – including changes in their health, mental health, AOD use, social support and service utilisation
4. Provide recommendations for future practice