Implications for Policy and Action
Integrated Support Services
The interconnected issues of mental health, addiction, and homelessness require integrated support systems that provide comprehensive care.
Economic Safety Nets
Strengthening safety nets for those facing economic downturns and job loss can prevent homelessness before it starts.
Support for Domestic Violence Survivors
Enhanced, long-term support for survivors of domestic violence is essential to provide them with a stable path forward.
Youth - Transitional Programmes and Early Intervention
Programmes that support youth ageing out of foster care with life skills training and housing assistance can reduce their risk of homelessness. Providing early intervention support to youth who are homeless can prevent them from becoming chronically homeless.
Trauma-Informed Care
Early intervention and trauma-informed care for children and adults can prevent the long-term consequences of trauma that often lead to homelessness.
Addressing the Impact of Colonisation
Expanding and strengthening Te Ao Māori approaches to counter the injustices of colonisation can contribute to equity and move toward a just and sustainable shared future for all.
Recommendations
Affordable Housing Initiatives
Housing First Approach
Implement Housing First policies that prioritise providing support and permanent housing to the homeless without preconditions.
Affordable Housing Development
Invest in the construction and maintenance of affordable housing units to meet the demand.
Economic Support and Employment Services
Job Training Programmes
Develop and fund job training and placement programmes tailored to the needs of the homeless population and build their confidence to work.
Economic Safety Nets
Strengthen unemployment benefits and financial assistance programmes to prevent homelessness due to economic shocks.
Economic Support and Employment Services
Public Awareness Campaigns
Launch campaigns to educate the public about homelessness and reduce stigma.
Community Partnerships
Create partnerships between iwi, hapū, local governments, non-profits, and businesses to create a coordinated response to homelessness.
Healthcare Services
Integrated Health Services
Create comprehensive health care programmes that address both physical and mental health needs, including addiction recovery services and specialised programmes to re-connect whānau, restore mana, and address the impacts of colonisation.
Mobile Health Clinics
Deploy mobile health clinics to provide accessible healthcare services to the homeless population.
Support for Vulnerable Populations
Domestic Violence Survivors
Enhance support services for domestic violence survivors, including long-term housing solutions and counselling.
Youth Ageing Out of Foster Care
Develop transitional programmes that provide housing, education, and employment support for youth exiting the foster care system.