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The Role of Companionship in Volunteer Homelessness Support Services: A Qualitative Study

Author

Listed:
  • Helen Taylor

    (Cardiff School of Education and Social Policy, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff CF5 2YB, UK)

  • Henry Dawson

    (Centre for Health, Immunology, Microbiology and the Environment, Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff CF5 2YB, UK)

Abstract

Drawing on developments in the application of occupational science to issues of homelessness and tenancy sustainability, this paper will argue for the recognition of authentic, everyday relationships as a core part of tenancy support. Data from a small-scale evaluation of a volunteer-led homelessness support service will be explored through a framework of social support to show the importance of companionship in enabling individuals to exit homelessness. The data show that individuals valued the provision of social support from volunteers in everyday locations, as it replicated authentic relationships which individuals had sometimes lost through their experiences of homelessness. This paper argues that the facilitation of authentic, everyday relationships should be considered an important part of homelessness support.

Suggested Citation

  • Helen Taylor & Henry Dawson, 2024. "The Role of Companionship in Volunteer Homelessness Support Services: A Qualitative Study," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 13(11), pages 1-13, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jscscx:v:13:y:2024:i:11:p:568-:d:1505146
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Henwood, B.F. & Cabassa, L.J. & Craig, C.M. & Padgett, D.K., 2013. "Permanent supportive housing: Addressing homelessness and health disparities?," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 103(S2), pages 188-192.
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