Slipping through the net: Homeless people in Kent

Abstract

This report sets out to present a snap shot of how the agencies, homeless people and the services that are set up to assist them, are perceived by each other. The purpose of the report is to generate debate and enable “both sides” to enter into open and honest dialogue. It is our hope that this will further improve joint working and allow us all to gain a deeper understanding of the problems faced by both the providers of services and those who need to use them. The report as the title suggests, highlights how people can slip through the gaps in provision and paints a picture of a “non system”. What we have to understand is how this feels for the people seeking shelter and support. The fact that many are already frightened, frustrated and angry may go someway to helping practitioners understand why vulnerable people vanish or do not respond positively to being told that they need to find their own way; this in a housing market that is out of their reach in terms of affordability and supply