A reappraisal of contemporary homelessness policy: the new role for transitional housing programmes. Issue 4 (1st October 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Williams, Izaak L.
• Is Part Of: International journal of housing policy. Volume 20:Issue 4(2020)
• Page Start: 578
• Page End: 587
• Publication Date: 2020-10-01
• Subjects: Transitional housing -- HUD -- housing policy -- homeless -- Housing First; Housing policy -- Periodicals; Housing; Periodicals; 363.505
• DOI: 10.1080/19491247.2019.1663070
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1949-1255

Abstract

Abstract: In the U.S. as in many other countries around the world, Permanent Housing (PH) policy based on Housing First (HF) principles has become increasingly important in recent years in tackling homelessness, based on evidence of superior outcomes compared with traditional transitional housing programmes (THPs). This article highlights the limitations of the existing evidence base used to support this policy trend, and highlights the need for more research, as well as consideration of a broader range of evidence, to reappraise the potential continuing value of THPs in producing positive outcomes for homeless populations. I also make a number of suggestions for repositioning the role of THPs in a housing and recovery pathway approach that would help meet the complex needs of vulnerable citizens in the era of Housing First policy.