Investigating the Experiences of People who Have Been Homeless and are in Contact with Learning Disability Services

This paper explores the experiences of people who have been homeless and in contact with learning disability services. The research adds to the very limited evidence, particularly in the UK, on how services can better meet the health and social needs of this group. All people with learning disabilities who were homeless and known to either local social services or health learning disability services in a large city in the North East of England were identified. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 14 participants at their current accommodation. Content analysis was used to identify common themes. Interview data indicated that breakdown of social support was the main cause of homelessness, and that in temporary accommodation people with learning disabilities were vulnerable to exploitation by other residents. Concerns were also expressed about the quality of housing, mental health was a recurring theme and the importance of ensuring that people with learning disabilities receive adequate treatment for these difficulties is discussed. Access to health care in general is facilitated by support in arranging and attending appointments. Mediation services may play a key role in preventing people with learning disabilities from becoming homeless through relationship breakdown. The study also suggests that improvements in temporary accommodation are needed, including housing designed specifically for people with learning disabilities, in order to react effectively to episodes of homelessness.