Peculiarities of Social Work with Young People Experiencing Homelessness

Abstract

Homelessness is a concern for policymakers and society as a whole. However, youth homelessness is a more significant concern for individuals experiencing it. Social work with young homeless people requires understanding the concept, causes and consequences of homelessness, adequate skills, and the ability to use a holistic approach to tackle the problems. The purpose of this thesis was to highlight the experiences of social workers working with young homeless people, analyse the cause concept and consequences of youth homelessness, and identify ways to provide social assistance to young homeless people. A qualitative research method was used in this thesis to examine the phenomenon of youth homelessness. Five social workers working with young homeless people from a city in Finland participated in this research. Data were collected with semi-structured interview questions. The semi-structured interview data were analysed manually in categories and subcategories using the content analysis method. The findings indicated that social work with young homeless people is complex and extensive. Becoming homeless at a young age may be a chaotic situation; many are in denial of the reality of the problem. Homelessness is understood differently from different countries. There is a shortage of affordable personalised housing for young homeless people. Social workers lack sufficient tools to provide adequate services to young homeless people; early identification is vital. Hidden homelessness is a challenge; there is the need to low threshold services to young people who are at risk to become homeless. Health and mental health undiagnosed is a problem; collaboration with other services is also a problem. It will be beneficial to enhance services provided to young people experiencing homelessness to reduce homelessness among young people and facilitate the activities of social workers. It is recommended to give more tools to social workers working with homeless young people.