Evaluation of the Housing First Pilots: Interim Process Evaluation Report

This document describes an evaluation of three Housing First pilot programs in the UK aimed at addressing homelessness by providing independent housing and personalized support to those with complex needs. The pilots, funded with £28 million, are being tested in Greater Manchester, Liverpool City Region, and the West Midlands, adhering to Housing First principles. A mixed-methods approach, including quantitative assessments, cost-benefit analysis, qualitative research, and fidelity assessments, was used for evaluation. Challenges such as staff recruitment, securing housing, and service coordination were identified, alongside positive outcomes like stable accommodation and reduced recidivism. The evaluation highlights the need for high-level commitment, cross-authority collaboration, and the inclusion of individuals with lived experience. Recommendations suggest more time for relationship building, service sustainability, and sharing success stories. Additionally, the document reviews the eligibility criteria for the programs, which combine quantitative tools and professional judgment to identify those who would benefit most from the support. The main conclusion is that successful implementation of Housing First programs requires time, commitment, education of staff, engagement with landlords, and ongoing support and learning for service improvement. **This summary was written by an AI model and therefore should not be considered a definitive summary of the report. If you are aware of inaccuracies, please email evaluation.registry@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.**

Description

• Lead department: Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government
• Evaluation stage: A complete evaluation report
• Other departments: No other departments listed
• Evaluation types: Process evaluation
• Process methods: Individual interviews
• Grant information: This intervention is not distributing funding via a grant
• Government Major Project information: This intervention is not a major project
• Policies: No policies provided

Event Dates

• Event Name: Publication of final results
• Event date: December 2020

Evaluation Costs

• Cost: Not provided

Evaluation sharing

• Link(s) to published report(s): Yes
• Links to evaluation plans: No link provided
• Findings: Not provided
• Permission to share confirmed: Yes