On behalf of Peter McVerry Trust (PMVT), academics from the School of Medicine at Trinity College Dublin have launched the report ‘An Evaluation of Peter McVerry Trust and their Operations during the Covid-19 Pandemic for Persons Experiencing Homelessness (PEH)’.
On Friday May 25th, PMVT Deputy CEO Liz Peña introduced the authors of the report, Professor Jo-Hanna Ivers and Neil Dunne. The team outlined PMVT response to COVID-19 and provided an insight into participant and staff experiences of isolation and shielding services. In attendance was a range of stakeholders including Fr. Peter McVerry, CEO Niall Mulligan and colleagues from both organisations that supported the production of the report. Two individuals who had availed of the isolation services of provided context around their own ‘lived experience’.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, PEH faced heightened vulnerability due to adverse living conditions and pre-existing health issues. The report investigated the response to COVID-19 for those experiencing homelessness and drug use, aiming to identify lessons to inform future recommendations and enhance healthcare provision for these marginalised groups.
Methodology and Aims: The study employed a mixed-methods approach, integrating literature synthesis, clinical data analysis, and stakeholder perspectives. It focused on understanding the experiences of PEH during the pandemic, highlighting PMVT’s crucial role in providing services.
Key Findings:
- Clinical Data Analysis: Data from 2893 service users revealed that the majority were Irish nationals (60%), with a significant portion from Dublin City Council (55%). Most participants faced recent homelessness, primarily due to family circumstances, with an average stay of 32 days with PMVT.
- Subsample Analysis: Analysis of service users with higher needs (n=483) showed varying demographics and health conditions. Those with higher needs had shorter stays, underscoring the need for tailored support.
- Qualitative Insights: Interviews with stakeholders revealed challenges such as limited substance access, changes in living conditions, and healthcare staffing issues. Positive outcomes included improved access to opioid substitution therapy and a strengthened sense of community among service providers.
- Collective Intelligence Group Findings: A surge in service adoption during the pandemic was noted, with participants addressing challenges through resourceful strategies and acknowledging the interdependence of stable housing and overall well-being.
Recommendations: The report’s comprehensive recommendations focus on enhancing support, tailoring interventions, and fostering inclusivity. Key recommendations include:
- Tailored Interventions: Recognising diverse needs within the homeless community and implementing specialised outreach programs and case management services.
- Coordinated Approach: Involving healthcare professionals, mental health specialists, and social workers in providing support for individuals with higher levels of needs.
- Integrated Services: Promoting integrated health and social inclusion, substance use disorder treatment, and gender-responsive services.
- Trauma-Informed Support: Ensuring culturally and linguistically sensitive services, gender-specific outreach strategies, and trauma-informed care.
- Ongoing Evaluation: Emphasising continuous evaluation, collaboration with specialised organisations, and responsive healthcare practices to promote cultural competence and holistic care.
Conclusion: This study sheds light on the nuanced impact of COVID-19 on homeless and drug-using populations. The recommendations offer valuable insights for shaping responsive and sustainable healthcare strategies for marginalised populations in future public health crises and beyond.
For more information and to access the full report:
The slides that were used in the delivery of this report from Trinity College Dublin can be seen here:
About Peter McVerry Trust: Peter McVerry Trust is a national housing and homelessness charity in Ireland, dedicated to reducing homelessness and the harm caused by substance misuse and social disadvantage. The Trust provides housing, support, and advocacy for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
