IMPACT STORIES
Learn how positive change can happen in our community with some real world case studies
Case Study: A Young Mother’s Journey to Stability
Background:
A young mother of three faced homelessness after being evicted from her home due to rise in living costs and a 30% increase in rent partnered with the competitive housing market where options were limited and unaffordable.
With no stable housing, she resorted to sleeping in her car while her children were temporarily cared for by extended family members. Overwhelmed by feelings of isolation, significant stress, and financial strain, she experienced chronic sleep deprivation, increased health issues, significant financial stress and struggled with memory, concentration and ability to make decisions.
Seeking emergent help, she attempted to access over 10 different services in the area for food, financial assistance, and housing support with no luck and frustrations with having to tell her story multiple times, feeling the need to ‘prove’ how bad her circumstances were and spending so much time and money going from one place to another with no viable support options available due to excessive wait times or inability to meet their criteria for support. However, the complexity and fragmentation of these systems left her confused and hopeless, ultimately contributing to a significant decline in her mental health.
Outcome and Impact:
Through the intervention of a local Specialist Homelessness Service (SHS) provider, coordinated support was mobilised and coordinated responses were engaged. The SHS provider worked closely with the local Housing Service Centre (HSC), an emergency relief provider, and a family support service to create an integrated response, whereby they all worked together (with consent) to share key information needed to identify key needs, recognise strengths and resources and implement a joint case plan to work together with the young mum to work on her aspirations. By providing service delivery approaches that were person-centered, trauma-informed, and outcomes-focused, services collaborated effectively to reduce barriers to accessing support. This enabled the young mother to reconnect with her children, stabilise her housing situation, and improve her mental health, family connection, and overall safety and stability.
These approaches not only facilitated positive outcomes for the young mother but also enhanced the service delivery of individual practitioners and their organisations. The collaborative effort strengthened working partnerships across services, showcasing the importance of integrated, person-centered practices in achieving long-term positive outcomes for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Case Study Snapshot: John’s Journey to Stability
Background:
John, a 32-year-old man, faced homelessness after losing his job and stable housing due to economic hardship. Upon entering the support program, he faced multiple challenges, including mental health issues, limited social support, and no income. Over six months, John engaged with caseworkers, attended counselling, and accessed community resources, achieving significant progress across multiple domains.
Initially housed in a crisis shelter, John transitioned to stable, long-term housing with caseworker support for tenancy management. Starting with unmanaged anxiety and depression, John engaged in regular counselling and developed a mental health care plan, improving his emotional wellbeing
John progressed from unemployment to receiving Centrelink payments and eventually secured part-time employment, gaining financial independence. From social isolation, John built strong community networks by participating in local events and peer support groups, fostering a sense of belonging. With no recent skill development, John completed vocational training, earning a certificate that enhanced his employability. Fleeing a violent situation, John accessed legal support and developed a safety plan, resolving his legal issues and feeling secure. Initially dependent on caseworkers, John gained confidence in managing his support plans and advocating for his needs independently. With limited initial connection to his heritage, John engaged with community elders and cultural events, rekindling pride in his identity.
Outcome and Impact:
John’s journey demonstrates how a holistic, structured approach addressing multiple domains can lead to transformative outcomes. By the program’s conclusion, John transitioned from crisis to stability with a renewed sense of purpose, improved wellbeing, stronger community ties, and a deepened connection to his cultural identity.
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Homelessness QLD are interested in you and your experience of homelessness.
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