SPR30831 WLF SPA WhitePaper v12 - Flipbook - Page 25
Homelessness
Wesley Mission’s Homes for Heroes program 112 is a transitional accommodation facility
providing outreach and case management support and referrals for veterans who are at risk of
homelessness. In an interview with program management, general heightened anxiety in relation
to social isolation measures was reported among at-risk veterans. A decrease in social
connection due to physical distancing has led to a relapse in substance abuse and an increase
in alcohol consumption. This is concerning for vulnerable veterans at risk of homelessness as
evidence demonstrates a link between substance abuse and alcohol consumption to increased
suicide rates 113.
Secure, long term housing provides stability and safety which enables people to access mental
health and substance use supports. The Housing First model is an evidence-based approach to
ending homelessness by quickly transitioning people into affordable housing, while providing
ongoing support to maintain housing security. The Housing First model has been implemented
in the US, UK, Europe, Canada and New Zealand 114,115.
Research into the efficacy of the Housing First model demonstrates reductions in homelessness,
substance abuse and use of crisis services, increases in people accessing mental health
services, and improvements in health and wellbeing 116,117,118,115,119.
Recommendations
• G
overnments to extend the moratorium on evictions to support people who will experience
prolonged financial distress during the recovery phase of COVID-19.
• G
overnments to address long-term housing and accommodation strategies, including the
Housing First approach, in the recovery phase of COVID-19.
Reducing distress in the community following the COVID-19 pandemic
June 2020
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