Social Firms UK

This report was commissioned by Demos (the think tank for everyday democracy) and Crisis (the national charity for single, homeless people). It looks at:

• work, life skills and moving away from homelessness
• breaking down barriers: obstacles to returning to work for homeless people
• learning the lessons:understanding what works.

In September 2002, homelessness charity, CRISIS, commissioned this research project exploring the concept of daytime homelessness. It also examined the role and nature of daytime provision, meaningful activity, education, training and employment opportunities for homeless, formerly homeless and vulnerably housed people.

Most individuals who are homeless want to work but have multiple barriers to tackle before being able to gain, or sustain, employment. This is even more the case in the competitive, fast-moving, short-term, low-waged labour market that many with low skills or no recent work experience are likely to find themselves in. The Right Deal For Homeless People is a model of holistic, co-ordinated employment support for the most disadvantaged that, if funded and delivered in the right way, will enable more homeless individuals to achieve sustainable, progressive work.