The narratives of homeless men on housing support and the role of a social worker in the process of becoming independent

Abstract

This article is devoted to housing exclusion and support for people experiencing homelessness in Poland. It presents the results of research aimed at discovering individual ways of entering this crisis (the causes of exclusion), as well as at getting to know the narratives of men living in shelters about housing support and the role of social workers in the process of getting out of homelessness. The research was conducted using the case study method, with the help of a narrative interview. The data obtained showed that various factors lead to homelessness, primarily family, institutional, fi nancial, housing, health, individual and systemic factors. The respondents expect social inclusion, especially housing, but they are accompanied by fears and uncertainty
related to change. They also see the many roles played by social workers with
whom they work on a daily basis. Above all they appreciate the counselling, material support, encouragement to do therapy, for socio-professional activation, personal development, contact with the loved ones and assistance in dealing with offi cial matters. The condition for preventing the petrifaction of homelessness is the help offered to people struggling with this crisis led by specialists and social workers. An important factor in the process of getting out of homelessness are housing programs, which not only give people experiencing homelessness hope to improve their lot, but above all, they are an important motivating factor for any changes.