Homelessness as a public health emergency: learnings from crisis

What this research is about: This research looks at public health responses to homelessness during the COVID emergency in Australia. It identifies barriers, adaptations and lessons learned from increased teamwork between public health and homelessness sectors. It investigates how these partnerships formed and how they can continue with ongoing adequate funding, staffing and logistical support.Why this research is important: People experiencing homelessness faced high risks from COVID-19. This was due to their limited ability to practice social distancing, reduced access to infection-prevention items and difficulties self-isolating when required.Support measures showed health and homelessness services can work well together given the right operational environments. This highlights that the collaborations need to continue as homelessness remains a significant public health issue.