Workplace trauma on the social housing and homelessness frontline

This research explores workplace trauma in Australia’s social housing and homelessness services – including its extent, causes and impacts. It examines current practices to address this trauma, options to mitigate it, and guiding principles for response.People working in the housing and homelessness sector are exposed to significant trauma due to their role as service providers of last resort for individuals with complex needs. A national survey of frontline staff reveals almost universal exposure to workplace aggression and tenant and client distress.There is a need to understand how to minimise workplace trauma and create safer environments for frontline staff.