Homeless Services in Liverpool

Healthwatch Liverpool carried out an extensive review of homelessness services, speaking to 117 people, including 74 people with lived experience of homelessness, as well as staff from housing, health and voluntary sector organisations. The report found that Liverpool offers a wide range of homelessness support services, but many people were unaware of what was available or struggled to navigate the system. Support workers and specialist homelessness services were generally valued, particularly where consistent relationships and personalised support could be developed. 

Housing and accommodation were major concerns. People reported difficulties moving on from hostels into permanent housing, and some felt temporary accommodation was unsuitable or unsafe. There were particular concerns about the availability of accommodation for people with complex needs, physical disabilities or those leaving prison. Continuity of support was seen as essential, especially when moving into independent housing, and many feared losing trusted support relationships at key transition points. 

The report identified significant gaps in health and social care provision. Specialist healthcare services for homeless people, such as the Homeless Access Clinic, received very positive feedback, while mainstream services were more likely to be criticised for poor staff attitudes and people feeling judged because of homelessness, addiction or mental health needs. A key finding was the lack of accessible mental health support for homeless people, particularly those with both mental health difficulties and drug or alcohol dependency. Concerns were also raised about hospital discharge arrangements, limited social care provision and difficulties securing appropriate care packages or end-of-life support. 

Healthwatch concluded that homelessness is a complex issue requiring better coordination between housing, health, social care and voluntary sector services. Recommendations included involving people with lived experience in service design, improving continuity of support, expanding services for people with complex needs, developing specialist services for people with dual diagnoses, improving move-on accommodation and strengthening collaboration between organisations. The report also highlighted opportunities created during the COVID-19 pandemic, where emergency housing measures demonstrated that more ambitious approaches to tackling homelessness are possible.