The experiences of front-line service providers of Housing First programme delivery in three communities in Ontario, Canada

In many OECD countries, the Housing First (HF) approach has emerged as a leading social policy for addressing the needs of populations experiencing chronic homelessness combined with a dual diagnosis of substance abuse issues and mental health illnesses. The HF model is an evidence-based practice for housing the long-term homeless population; as such, much of the current scholarship has focused on evaluating the outcomes for participants. This paper adds to the empirical understanding of the HF model from the perspective of service providers. The paper is based on an analysis of interviews with service providers from HF programmes in three communities in Ontario, Canada. The service providers considered the HF model to be the most effective approach to housing chronically homeless people. However, the analysis underscored challenges with implementation: lack of housing stock, lack of housing options, unwillingness of landlords to participate in the programmes, and the need for rent supplement. The analysis addresses the need to capture the perspectives of practitioners tasked with implementing the HF model. Empirical findings and recommendations may provide useful lessons for local communities and housing organisations in countries implementing the model, as well as those considering implementation.