letterhead
HOMELESSNESS: EVERYONE’S RESPONSIBILITY A whole of community response to the early prevention of homelessness
Final Report November 2011
A Windermere Initiative, with funding contributed by:
In Partnership with: Casey North Information and Support Services
www.windermere.org.au 1 of 36
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011
Windermere’s Homelessness Project Overview 1. Acknowledgements Windermere acknowledges the contributions and goodwill that have enabled the successful delivery of Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility project for CALD Communities in the Growth Corridor (hereafter referred to as the Homelessness Project). Specifically, Windermere would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge: The Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation Rick Comfort, Centrelink Multicultural Services Officer Louis Hebrard, Financial Counsellor Casey North Information and Support Services Maha Sukkar, Victoria Police Craig Miller, Victoria Police Jan Donaldson and Sarah Truscott, Windermere Housing Program The Group Leaders who enabled the successful delivery of all the community education sessions The Southern Integrated CALD Child and Family Network. Our sincerest thanks go to the presenters; the support of the group leaders who assisted with organising the sessions; and the participants for their attendance and interest – thank you! Please accept this statement as a demonstration of our appreciation.
2. Summary of Project Highlights and Achievements Targeted and engaged a total of 236 CALD community members and leaders in community education sessions: o 15 Afghani o 53 Turkish o 1 Sudanese leader o 48 Chinese o 45 Vietnamese o 14 Spanish o 35 Mother’s Group members (Sudanese, Afghani, Sri Lankan, Iranian, Cabodian, Indian, Pakistani and Lebanese) o 25 Muslim women (Turkish) Conducted two community forums on homelessness, attracting (organisational representatives and community leaders): o o
250 attendees in 2010 170 in 2011
Established a CALD Network Homelessness Working Party and Workplan Initiated a Homelessness Research Project in partnership with Monash University and the CALD Network
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011 Consolidated relationships with partnering organisations as a basis for further collaboration Informed and educated CALD communities on the housing support system, access points, their rights and responsibilities, risk factors and prevention.
3. Project Scope Target Groups The target groups identified and recommended for this project by the CALD Network and through consultations included Afghani, Turkish, Sudanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Spanish and the Multicultural Mother’s Group.
Purpose The purpose of this project was to contribute to the prevention of homelessness among at-risk Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities, through a community education approach involving mentorship, support, information and improved pathways into local housing. It was not within the scope of the project to guarantee housing as an outcome due to the shortage of secure accommodation options in metropolitan Melbourne, however those identified at imminent risk of homelessness, were referred into the system for assistance. Start Date: 4 January 2011
Completion Date: 30th October 2011.
Project Objectives Objective 1: To inform and educate CALD community groups about their rights and responsibilities under the Housing Act 1983, Residential Tenancies Act 1997, Family Violence Protection Act 2008, Children and Young Persons Act 1989, and the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006. Objective 2: To improve access and equity among under-represented CALD groups to information about the risks of homelessness, prevention, access to the justice system and homelessness support services. Objective 3: To prevent risk of homelessness due to a range of factors through community education. Objective 4: To empower CALD groups to participate more fully in informing social change regarding traditional (unlawful) perceptions of violence, cultural difference and language barriers. Objective 5: To sustain the reach of the project and social cohesion through establishing CALD community members as mentors.
Rationale CALD communities are growing rapidly in the south eastern growth corridor. Consultations conducted through the Victims of Crime CALD Report (Myriad Consulting, 2007) process; and the Windermere
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011 initiated and led Southern Integrated CALD Child and Family Network (comprising up to 60 government and community agencies) has identified CALD groups as being at high risk of homelessness. These consultations have specifically found that the majority of respondents chose to not talk about their experiences or seek help; they often had a different perception of homelessness compared to the mainstream definition in the Victorian context; and they faced specific barriers to accessing appropriate housing support, including: Lack of awareness of the range of support services available Cultural differences and language barriers Lack of understanding of the various legal options available Fear that reporting family violence will cause more problems, family breakdown and homelessness Unemployment or limited finances Lack of extended family and community support - a particular concern for women, children and seniors Lack of understanding about the housing system Fear that their confidentiality will be breached by service providers Isolation Difficulties in accessing housing support services due to long waiting lists and lack of housing options (although this is widespread and not analogous to CALD communities). Windermere conducted a successful CALD Consumer Credit Project utilising a community education model in 2010. The methodology of engagement was applied to this project as it proved effective.
Expected Project Outcomes The anticipated outcomes of this project were: Establishment of partnerships to improve access to, and navigation through the homelessness support system Increased awareness of homelessness (CALD communities and providers) 2 forums conducted across the growth corridor with a target of 100 participants per forum 4 Local Network Group meetings Establishment of referral protocols and pathways 8 education sessions conducted from January to September 2011 (approximately 250 participants) Early intervention support and referral for up to 50 families Evaluation findings contributing to evidence-base. Identify, train and evaluate 10 agencies to act as project partners to participate in a train the trainer initiative. Provide mentoring to support the delivery of community education in partner agencies.
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011
Actual Project Outcomes The project activities that have successfully been completed, include: Consolidation of strong partnerships within the homelessness support system Increased awareness of the risk factors for homelessness 2 forums conducted engaging a total of 420 participants! Monthly CALD Network meetings with a focus on homelessness Promotion of referral protocols and pathways 8 education sessions conducted from January to September 2011 engaging 236 participants Participants identified at-risk provided with referral information and support – difficult to quantify numbers due to client’s right to privacy Establishment of a CALD Network Homelessness Working Group (CALD Network member agencies participated in activities that enhanced their knowledge and capacity to up-skill others – train the trainer model) Presentation of project progress to the CALD Network and at public forums, inviting involvement and access to the community education model for their respective organisations Initiation of Homelessness Research Formative (process) evaluation findings utilised to implement ongoing improvements to methodology Summative (impact) evaluation findings contributed to evidence base that a community education approach can be effective in improving knowledge and access.
Project Outputs Project outputs include: Session Flyers (including agendas) produced and distributed Consultations held with Community Group Leaders Session evaluation (pre and post survey) established in collaboration with Windermere’s Housing Team and the Project Manager Progress reports for CALD Network CALD Network Working Group formed to explore prevention of homelessness (ongoing) CALD Network Homelessness Working Group Workplan This final project report (evidence) A Homelessness Research Report will be produced once the research is completed.
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011
Project Activities 1. Homelessness Forums Forum Purpose The forums were created to address the correlation of homelessness and cultural standing. In other words, how the process of entry into Australia occurred and how this impacts on an individual’s lifestyle and settlement into Australian society. The main issues linked to risk of homelessness include family violence; the role of men in the family; financial issues; and barriers associated with accessing mainstream service. The forums were introduced by the CEO of Windermere, and consisted presenters representing community organisations and government.
Presenters Presenters at the July 2010 Homelessness Forum and the August 2011 Forum represented Government Departments and Agencies, Community Service Organisations, Specialist Services and members of Parliament (see Appendix 1 for details).
Conclusions The main themes that came out of the forums included the need for: evaluation to better understand the demographics of homelessness (homeless individuals have been incorporated into the next census) a multifaceted approach by the private and public sectors addressing attitudes and stigma associated with homelessness through community education, constructive media portrayal, collaboration and targeted intervention.
2. CALD Network Homelessness Working Group and Research Following the 2010 Forum, a CALD Network homelessness planning session was arranged with a flyer and agenda sent to all Network members (see Appendix 2). Over 75 agencies attended this planning meeting and developed the Network’s CALD At Risk of Homelessness Workplan 2011-2012 (see Appendix 3), which details specific actions involving: Mapping Community education Research Projects Sector development.
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011 All Workplan Objectives have been successfully implemented. Another positive outcome as a direct result of the forums, working group meetings and Network advocacy, has been the commencement of a Monash University PhD Student conducting a Homelessness Research Project with Windermere and the Network (for further details see Appendix 4). These unexpected secondary outcomes and flow on effects of this project are significant indicators of the acknowledgement across the sector of the importance of addressing homelessness, and the far reaching engagement capacity of this approach.
3. Education Sessions - Overview Session Purpose The intended purpose of the sessions was to: Educate attendees on the roles of the guest speakers and how their organisations can help Define the current housing situation and local housing services Present prevention strategies for reducing risks of homelessness Present strategies for managing crises Highlight the role of Police in family violence situations (recognising this as a risk factor for homelessness) Educate attendees on how to access the crisis payment and other services in special circumstances Identifying and highlighting support pathways for people with issues compounding their risk of homelessness.
Presenters Presenters included: Louis Hebrard, Financial Counsellor Casey North Community Information and Support Services Maha Sukkar, Senior Constable Victoria Police Rick Comfort, Multicultural Services Officer Centrelink Sarah Truscott, Case Manager Windermere Housing Services.
Evaluation Questions The following questions were developed to gauge the relevance of homelessness to the group, their knowledge, and the effectiveness of the information sessions. 1. Have you experienced or are you experiencing homelessness? 2. Did you receive support? 3. What service did you go to? 4. What support did you receive?
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011 5. What was the outcome? 6. Do you now have knowledge of housing and other services? 7. Do you now have knowledge of who to contact? 8. Was the information provided useful?
Structure The sessions were held at the Group’s community setting to enhance attendance, and the structure of the sessions was informal to enable two way dialogue between presenters and attendees. This approach was well received as indicated by verbal feedback. Interpreters were arranged for each session. The Project Officer asked permission of the Group to take photos of each session. This occurred for all Groups except the Muslim Women’s Group at the Dandenong Mosque. Photos were not taken of this session out of respect for the wishes of attendees.
4. Education Session Findings Information Session Afghani Women’s Group, Uniting Place in Hallam 23rd February 2011 Group Details The first education session targetted the Afghani community. Windermere was encouraged to engage consumers and workers in this session. The session was attended by 15 Afghani women. Language spoken at home: Dari. Attendees had been living in Australia for 5 to 6 years. Topics Topics included: The roles of the guest speakers and how their organisations can help The current housing situation and local housing services Prevention strategies to avoid risks of homelessness and how to manage in crises Police role in family violence situations How to access a crisis payment and other services in special circumstances Support pathways for people affected by FV. Attendees were provided with Information flyers which defined access to support services for crisis and homelessness. Information flyers were provided by Centrelink in the applicable language. Results The survey used to elicit findings for this group represent a mix of quantitative and qualitative questions. Quantitative findings are depicted in figure 1, and qualitative responses are depicted in table 1.
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011
Figure 1: Afghani Education Session Quantitative Findings
16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0 Yes
No
Have you experienced or are you experiencing homelessness? Do you now have knowledge of housing and other services? Do you now have knowledge of who to contact? Was the information useful?
Table 1: Afghani Education Session Qualitative Findings Question
Response
Did you receive support?
Whilst only one respondent indicated that she had experienced homelessness, several other attendees discussed being at risk of homelessness due to financial difficulties, family problems, finding a rental property and domestic violence. Majority of respondents indicated that they did not have prior knowledge of support services they could go to, so had not been in receipt of professional services. Three respondents indicated that they sought support from family and friends. Two respondents applied for Department of Housing assistance but received no response.
What service did you go to?
Mostly Centrelink, and one respondent Windermere’s Housing Support program.
What support did you receive?
The respondent who received Windermere assistance, obtained housing within 12 months, prior to this she had been residing in a Mosque with her children.
What was the outcome?
The above respondent indicated that the response was slow due to long waiting periods. One other respondent indicated that she received short term temporary relief, but it was difficult to manage rent due to lack of finances and unemployment.
was
referred
to
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011
Information Session Turkish Senior Citizen’s Group, Hampton Park 1st March 2011 Group Details The session attracted 53 Turkish attendees comprising 33 women and 20 men between the ages of 40 and 60 years. Language spoken at home: Turkish. Attendees had been living in Australia for between 5 and 20 years. Topics Topics included: The roles of the guest speakers and how their organisations can help The current housing situation and local housing services Prevention strategies to avoid risks of homelessness and how to manage in crises Police role in family violence situations How to access a crisis payment and other services in special circumstances Support pathways for people affected by FV. Attendees were provided with Information flyers which defined access to support services for crisis and homelessness. Information flyers were provided by Centrelink in the applicable language.
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011 Results The survey used to elicit findings for this group represent a mix of quantitative and qualitative questions. Quantitative findings are depicted in figure 2, and qualitative responses are depicted in table 2.
Figure 2: Turkish Education Session Quantitative Findings
60 50 40 30 20 10 0 Yes
No
Have you experienced or are you experiencing homelessness? Do you now have knowledge of housing and other services? Do you now have knowledge of who to contact? Was the information useful?
Table 2: Turkish Education Session Qualitative Findings Question
Response
Did you receive support?
Three respondents indicated they had experienced homelessness. They did not receive support due to lack of knowledge of where to go for assistance. Some people applied for Department of Housing assistance with no response. One woman reported domestic violence to Police, but she stated that she did not get support from the Police and they did not direct her into safe housing. Only short term support was given by agencies, but no housing support. Long waiting, no stable housing support and eligibility criteria is hard to meet.
What service did you go to?
What support did you receive? What was the outcome?
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011
Information Session Sudanese Group, Relationship Centre 1st April 2011 A session was scheduled for this date, however only one Sudanese community member turned up. The presenters waited at the venue for one hour. The session was postponed. The Sudanese community leader explained that the group is representative of three different tribes. Each one has its own language, tradition, culture and values, therefore it can be problematic combining these groups for the provision of information. The community leader also advised that such sessions should provide food and refreshments, and that people are far more likely to attend if the session is conducted on Friday evenings from 7.00 pm. These learnings are useful for informing future engagement activities targeting this community.
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011
Information Session Chinese Group 6th May 2011 Group Details The session attracted 48 attendees of mixed gender, with the majority being 50+ years of age. Language spoken at home: Mandarin. Attendees had been living in Australia for 10+ years. Topics Topics included: The roles of the guest speakers and how their organisations can help The current housing situation and local housing services Prevention strategies to avoid risks of homelessness and how to manage in crises Police role in family violence situations How to access a crisis payment and other services in special circumstances Support pathways for people affected by FV. Attendees were provided with Information flyers which defined access to support services for crisis and homelessness. Information flyers were provided by Centrelink in the applicable language. Results The survey used to elicit findings for this group represent a mix of quantitative and qualitative questions. Quantitative findings are depicted in figure 3, and qualitative responses are depicted in table 3.
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011
Figure 3: Chinese Education Session Quantitative Findings
50 40 30 20 10 0 Yes
No
Have you experienced or are you experiencing homelessness? Do you now have knowledge of housing and other services? Do you now have knowledge of who to contact? Was the information useful?
Table 3: Chinese Education Session Qualitative Findings Question
Response
Did you receive support?
One respondent indicated that she had experienced homelessness, but did not receive support due to lack of knowledge of where to go for assistance. Unable to seek external assistance due to family boundaries (shame).
What service did you go to?
What support did you receive?
Family and friends.
What was the outcome?
No response.
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011
Information Session Vietnamese Group, SICCMA Springvale 3rd June 2011 Group Details The session attracted 45 attendees of various ages, comprising 8 men and 37 women. Language spoken at home: Vietnamese. Attendees had been living in Australia for between 3 months and 30 years. Topics Topics included: The roles of the guest speakers and how their organisations can help The current housing situation and local housing services Prevention strategies to avoid risks of homelessness and how to manage in crises Police role in family violence situations How to access a crisis payment and other services in special circumstances Support pathways for people affected by FV. Attendees were provided with Information flyers which defined access to support services for crisis and homelessness. Information flyers were provided by Centrelink in the applicable language. Results The survey used to elicit findings for this group represent a mix of quantitative and qualitative questions. Quantitative findings are depicted in figure 4, and qualitative responses are depicted in table 4.
Figure 4: Vietnamese Education Session Quantitative Findings
45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 Yes
No
Have you experienced or are you experiencing homelessness? Do you now have knowledge of housing and other services? Do you now have knowledge of who to contact? Was the information useful?
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011 Table 4: Vietnamese Education Session Qualitative Findings Question
Response
Did you receive support?
What service did you go to?
Two respondents indicated they had experienced homelessness. One respondent received support and the other didn’t due to lack of knowledge of support options. One respondent went to WAYSS.
What support did you receive?
Assistance with accommodation.
What was the outcome?
Temporary home and assistance.
Information Session Spanish Window, Dandenong 11th August 2011 Group Details The session attracted 14 attendees of mixed ages, comprising 3 men and 11 women. Language spoken at home: Spanish. Attendees had been living in Australia for between 20 and 35 years. Topics Topics included: The roles of the guest speakers and how their organisations can help The current housing situation and local housing services Prevention strategies to avoid risks of homelessness and how to manage in crises Police role in family violence situations How to access a crisis payment and other services in special circumstances
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011 ďƒž Support pathways for people affected by FV. Attendees were provided with Information flyers which defined access to support services for crisis and homelessness. Information flyers were provided by Centrelink in the applicable language.
Results The survey used to elicit findings for this group represent a mix of quantitative and qualitative questions. Quantitative findings are depicted in figure 5, and qualitative responses are depicted in table 5.
Figure 5: Spanish Education Session Quantitative Findings
14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0 Yes
No
Have you experienced or are you experiencing homelessness? Do you now have knowledge of housing and other services? Do you now have knowledge of who to contact? Was the information useful?
Table 5: Spanish Education Session Qualitative Findings Question
Response
Did you receive support? What service did you go to?
Not applicable as this Group did not identify as having experienced homelessness. N/a
What support did you receive?
N/a
What was the outcome?
N/a
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011
Information Session Mother’s Group (multicultural), Wellsprings for Women 6th September 2011 Group Details The session attracted 35 women of mixed ages. Languages spoken at home: 10 Sudnaese Arabic; 10 Dari; 4 Persian; 3 Tamil; 3 Cambodian; 2 Hindi; 2 Urdu; 1 Lebanese. Attendees had been living in Australia for between 6 months and 5 years. Topics Topics included: The roles of the guest speakers and how their organisations can help The current housing situation and local housing services Prevention strategies to avoid risks of homelessness and how to manage in crises Police role in family violence situations How to access a crisis payment and other services in special circumstances Support pathways for people affected by FV. Attendees were provided with Information flyers which defined access to support services for crisis and homelessness. Information flyers were provided by Centrelink in the applicable language. Results The survey used to elicit findings for this group represent a mix of quantitative and qualitative questions. Quantitative findings are depicted in figure 6, and qualitative responses are depicted in table 6.
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011
Figure 6: Mother's Group Education Session Quantitative Findings
35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 Yes
No
Have you experienced or are you experiencing homelessness? Do you now have knowledge of housing and other services? Do you now have knowledge of who to contact? Was the information useful?
Table 6: Mother’s Group Education Session Qualitative Findings Question Did you receive support?
What support did you receive?
Response Of the six respondents that identified as having experienced homelessness, three received support and three did not. Two respondents went to WAYSS and one other was referred to another agency (not identified). Temporary accommodation (hostel).
What was the outcome?
Temporary relief.
What service did you go to?
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011 Information Session Muslim Women’s Group, Dandenong Mosque 28th September 2011 Group Details The session attracted 25 women of mixed ages. Language spoken at home was Turkish. Attendees had been living in Australia for between 10 to 35 years. Topics Topics included: The roles of the guest speakers and how their organisations can help The current housing situation and local housing services Prevention strategies to avoid risks of homelessness and how to manage in crises Police role in family violence situations How to access a crisis payment and other services in special circumstances Support pathways for people affected by FV. Attendees were provided with Information flyers which defined access to support services for crisis and homelessness. Information flyers were provided by Centrelink in the applicable language.
Results The survey used to elicit findings for this group represent a mix of quantitative and qualitative questions. Quantitative findings are depicted in figure 7, and qualitative responses are depicted in table 7.
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011
Figure 7: Muslim Women's Group Education Session Quantitative Findings
25 20 15 10 5 0 Yes
No
Have you experienced or are you experiencing homelessness? Do you now have knowledge of housing and other services? Do you now have knowledge of who to contact? Was the information useful?
Table 7: Muslim Women’s Group Education Session Qualitative Findings Question
Response
Did you receive support? What service did you go to?
Not applicable as this Group did not identify as having experienced homelessness. Not applicable.
What support did you receive?
Not applicable.
What was the outcome?
Not applicable.
No photos were taken in the Mosque out of respect.
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011
Before the session people had no motivation. After listening to the speakers people became very interested in the information provided and fully participated in asking questions. Group Leader
Project Outcomes 1. Analysis of Findings Figures 1 to 7 above consistently indicate the majority of attendees at all sessions did not identify as having experienced homelessness, although it was noted by the Project Officer that this number changed slightly once the definition of homelessness within the Australian context was discussed. Subsequently, 13 of the 236 attendees at the sessions identified as having experienced homelessness. It is worth noting the validity of these numbers may be contingent on individual and cultural beliefs that prevent divulging personal information in a public setting. There was also an observed tendency to not speak up when asked questions about homelessness. Certainly some CALD leaders have indicated that certain cultures do not talk about their private life publicly. Thus, this could be cultural or it could be generational with aged Anglo-Australians anecdotally expressing similar views. The majority of session attendees who did seek assistance for homelessness did not seek professional support and intervention, but rather, relied upon the goodwill of family and friends. Living with family or friends was not viewed as being ‘homeless’ and in some cultures it is the norm to accommodate ageing relatives. For example, the Chinese Group indicated that according to Chinese culture, most elderly live with their sons and daughters. It is part of the Chinese culture that sons are responsible for taking care of their aged parents. It is considered an affront to the family values if parents seek outside assistance. Therefore, their knowledge was non existent. Those who did seek professional assistance indicated that the support offered was short term. Whilst all groups indicated that their knowledge of where to go for help had increased dramatically as a result of the information sessions, they still didn’t fully understand the housing and broader support system. Two key areas of learning identified by leaders of the Turkish and Afghani groups, were an expressed understanding of the Office of Housing waiting period for public housing and that this is due to a widespread shortage of accommodation options. This was not understood prior to the session. At completion of the sessions, some attendees sought one-to-one advice and they were able to be guided appropriately. Information regarding budgeting and negotiating with the landlord / estate agent appeared to be well received and are often vital links to preventing issues spiralling out of control into homelessness. Language was also identified by attendees as a barrier in accessing information and support from the Office of Housing and community based support services. Presenters encouraged attendees to utilise interpreting services generally to enhance access to government and community-based support services. Attendees were not aware of the Centrelink classification of boarding as opposed to renting which was challenging to explain through an interpreter. Centrelink presenters were pivotal in unravelling complex questions and provided a personalised one to one connection. They supplied contact details and encouraged attendees to call them with any renting, leasing or financial assistance enquiries. Family violence is well documented in literature as being a risk factor for homelessness. Information provision in this regard assisted in demystifying the role of the Police and was useful, however it is yet to be determined if addressing two discrete yet linked topics ‘homelessness’ and ‘family violence’ within a
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011 single forum is appropriate and beneficial. There were not any specific comments made by attendees in this regard. The Vietnamese Group indicated the whole package of information was very useful. The Project Officer noted that “One lady stated that she knew there was general help available, but was not sure where to go for specific problems”. In this forum, participants were able to raise personal issues and receive a response immediately from the presenters. This, in addition to brochures in the their language enabled attendees to walk away from the session with a greater understanding of homelessness and support options. The presenters encouraged attendees to seek assistance to prevent / address crises. The Spanish Group comprised two Pastors from different denominations and their groups. Within the Church people come to them with many issues, but the pastors do not have knowledge of where to send them. Similar to other groups, the concept of homelessness and risk factors was not known among the Spanish Group. The session increased awareness for this group, and resulted in attendees coming forward and asking presenters for their advice regarding issues in which people they knew were struggling without any support. After the session, attendees indicated that they had a greater awareness that anyone can be at risk of homelessness. The Pastors expressed that they wanted to spread the word and educate their larger community. The Mother’s Group attendees were well engaged with the presenters, especially the Police who discussed family violence, and the associated reporting and intervention process. Beliefs and fears were discussed, including the notion that as Police are not part of or “the boss of our family”, their services are not sought in such situations. Attendees were encouraged to seek assistance and request an interpreter. Similar to all other groups, the Mother’s Group attendees were very pleased with the session. Most of them admitted that they had heard about support services, but were unsure how to make contact especially in view of language barriers. This was also raised by both the Turkish and Afghani groups. The Muslim Women’s Group did not identify as having experienced homelessness and the majority owned their homes. The group appeared to be most interested in financial support options offered by Centrelink and Casey North Information and Support Services. Some attendees knew about support services, but didn’t utilise them due to a sense of shame in asking for help in addition to the language barrier. The sessions generated much discussion and there was evidence post each session, of increased awareness of homelessness and where to go for help. Group Leader
2. Structure The sessions involved provision of information flyers which outlined support service options and methods of access for people at-risk of or experiencing homelessness. Information was supplied in the applicable language. Interpreters attended each session and were utilised effectively – engaging well with both attendees and presenters. The Project Officer observed that the sessions were generally well organised, informal and friendly. This personalised approach has proven to be effective in conducting previous projects. The strengths of this approach are detailed in Appendix 5. There was consistent feedback that the timing of the sessions (commencing 10am) was too early despite publicity and reminder phone calls. This is being taken on board and will inform the timing of future sessions to maximise attendance.
Homelessness: Everyone’s Responsibility Final Report November 2011 Attendees seemed enthusiastic about the sessions and indicated they were worthwhile. comments from Group leaders on the value of the sessions are attached (see Appendix 6).
Additional
The fear of calling the Police for assistance in FV has changed and now they are willing to discuss their issues with the Police. They are more confident and encouraged to seek support and advocacy in case of financial and domestic crises. Group Leader
3. Key Themes Many questions were raised by attendees across all groups. Consistent emerging themes appeared to be financial options and renters rights. Specifically, most groups indicated interest in a follow up session with the key topics being: Centrelink payments Rent assistance Leasing arrangements Renting issues Consumer rights Financial assistance and counselling Shared accommodation arrangements Utility payment.
4. Project Recommendations Rec 1:
The CALD Network to consider identifying strategies for raising awareness among CALD communities of the way in which the housing system integrates – its structure, the roles of government and community based organisations and access pathways.
Rec 2:
Consider other risk factors such as drug and alcohol misuse, financial disadvantage, and unemployment as topics for future homelessness projects.
Rec 3:
Consider capacity to arrange alternative methods of information delivery for groups that are difficult to engage, such as nights and weekend sessions; and ensure the timing of community education activities is considered in the context of each group to maximise attendance.
Rec 4:
Consider the key outcomes of the Homelessness Forums (need for evaluation to understand the demography of homeless persons; potential for a multifaceted approach by private and public sectors; and addressing attitudes and stigma) when planning future initiatives.
Rec 5:
The Project Manager (Windermere) consider conducting follow up education sessions on renters’ rights and financial support options to prevent homelessness.
APPENDIX 1
APPENDIX 2
APPENDIX 3
APPENDIX 4 Proposal for ARC Linkage Grant – Monash/Windermere collaboration Preventing homelessness: Understanding what works to keep people in housing in the new urban growth areas 9 August 2011, Janet Stanley DRAFT Background Housing policy in Australia tends to be fragmented. Apart from planning regulations it has largely been left to market forces for the bulk of the population and has not been a prominent policy area. Only about 5% of households live in public housing, with about 34% of households fully owning their housing and 35% paying mortgages (Dalton 2009). The present high demand for housing, the high growth in land price and the high levels of household debt are leading to serious pressures and concerns about affordable housing (NIEIR and Stanley 2009). Much of the demand for affordable housing is coming from the present rapid growth in migration. The gap between demand and supply of housing increases annually and will continue to increase according to the National Housing Supply Council (2010). These trends have resulted in a number of serious concerns for those at the bottom end of the housing market, such as increases in rental costs, additional pressure on public housing waiting lists and an increase in homelessness. Windermere is a leading NGO catering for the needs of families living in the new and rapidly growing outer eastern fringe suburbs of Melbourne. These new urban developments offer the most affordable housing for migrant families, newly established families (first home buyers) and those with a low income, such as sole-parent families. However, the convergence of a number of issues is leading to increased vulnerability and risk of social exclusion for many families in these new suburbs. The need to provide housing is tending to outpace other services and resources in the area. These include the essential support structures: transport, employment and education opportunities. The declining investment in transport infrastructure and poor job generation together with fringe suburbs frequently lacking transport connections to areas of major employment and other services, is a major problem (NIEIR 2010). Similarly, the building blocks which provide a sense of community and the frameworks for supporting community growth, community support and networks of social capital are not being put in place. Nor are the local community development and support agencies being adequately supported in this critical element of wellbeing. This absence is particularly acute because of the potential vulnerability of many of the families moving into the area who may be dealing with other difficult issues in addition to low levels of income. With the high new migrant population moving into the area, issues of cultural integration in a new and unfamiliar cultural context may lead to isolation. Such families also commonly lack information about, or knowledge about process to engage with available support. This problem is particularly acute after the first few years of arrival when the initial settlement supports are withdrawn. One unfortunate outcome is that many families at risk reach a crisis point in finances, family relationships or other issues and are unable to meet the mortgage or rental costs, or the costs involved in establishing alternative safe accommodation in a situation of relationship breakdown and family violence. The outcome may be homelessness and accompanying involvement of child protection and other crisis services. Anecdotal evidence suggests that there are many points where communities and support organisations, as well as other service organisations such as banks providing mortgage loans, are aware of concerns in the household. For some families who able to access support, there has been a successful outcome which has avoided a traumatic endpoint crisis and resultant cost intensive (emotional and financial for the family, community, support organisations and government) process to assist the family to return to stability. Assisting more families to move from the crisis trajectory through an earlier and timelier intervention and prevention response would result in much better outcomes for all involved. Research questions This proposed research will investigate and determine effective early intervention and secondary prevention strategies to assist people who are at risk of becoming homeless or at risk of remaining in the crisis system. The
area for focus is Dandenong, Casey, Cardinia and Mornington Peninsula. The purpose in doing this research is to inform a more integrated system of support that identifies families early through existing services such as community based agencies, local government and other relevant supports services. The methodology will include interviews and case studies of people who have either been identified as close to losing their house or those who have already received a service such as transitional housing. People will be asked to identify the practical, service and infrastructure supports that have or could have helped them overcome the circumstances that led to being homeless. Method 1. Awareness raising letter about the project with local government, organisations, community leaders and members. 2. Literature review and exploration of available documentation about homelessness, related factors and present interventions, in the project areas. 3. Questionnaire and/or consultation with people/organisations to ascertain their experience of the extent of the issue of housing break-down. This should assist in understanding ‘hidden need’ and hard-to-reach people and communities. Opinions will be sought on successful strategies employed to assist clients and the types of options that they would have liked to employ, but were unable, and why they were unable. Information will be sought on the nature of the solutions, who undertook the intervention and the resources needed. 4. Interviews with people who have either been identified as close to losing their house or those who have already received a service such as transitional housing. People will be asked to identify the practical, service and infrastructure supports that assisted them, or those they would have liked in order to help them overcome the circumstances that led to being homeless. They will be asked about the impact of the outcomes on their own, and their family’s wellbeing, now and in the future. The number of interviews, who is interviewed and their location will be determined by discussion with Windermere and other stakeholders, what has been learnt from step 2 and 3, above, as well as how diverse the issues appear to be, and the resources available to the project. 5. Subject to additional funding from a Linkage Grant, a cost/benefit approach could be undertaken in order to understand the value of the redistribution of costs from a crisis service provision to a preventative and early intervention approach. Such information could be used for policy development and advocacy with state and federal government, as well as a basis for attracting resources for this prevention work. Products 1. Interim findings will be presented in a forum with study participants and other interested parties. 2. The findings will be presented in a report, together with key recommendations and policy implications. Personnel Janet Stanley – Monash Uni Katie Vasey – Monash Uni Research Assistant – Monash Uni Lenore Manderson (To be determined) Assistance with cost/benefit analysis when needed Serap Ozdemir - Windermere References Dalton, A., 2009, Housing policy in Australia: Big Problems but well down the agenda, in McClelland, A. and Smyth, P (eds) Social Policy in Australia: Understanding for Action, 2nd ed. Oxford University Press, Australia, pp. 176-193. National Housing Supply Council, 2010, 2nd State of Supply Report 2010, National Housing Supply Council, author, Australia. NIEIR (National Institute of Economic and Industry Research) (with Stanley, J.) (2009), Disadvantage in Melbourne Local Government Areas 2008-2012, Report commissioned from Department of Planning and Community Development, Victoria. NIEIR (National Institute of Economic and Industry Research) 2010 State of the regions 2010-2011, author, Melbourne.
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The key attributes of a personalised community education approach as evidenced by Windermere are summarised as follows. Personalised Approach: Conduct smaller, more intimate groups Ensure sessions are held at the venue of the group’s choosing Sessions are to be conducted in an informal manner - encouraging questions and discussions during presentations Enable one to one dialogue where participants can discuss their personal situations and seek advice from each other and the presenters Empower consumers to make sensible choices through greater awareness and new found knowledge Socialise and network after sessions – this can build trust and relationships that can be sustained. Participatory Style: Participants should be encouraged to ask questions throughout the presentations - a participatory style of facilitation enables group members to share experiences and strategies with their peers Generate robust group discussion, rather than simply bombarding the groups with information only Empower participants to share the learnings with their peers beyond the project. Government Departments More Accessible: Demystify and showcase the human face of the government departments involved in presenting Enable participants to have one to one time with presenters Build confidence among participants to ask for assistance in the future, reminding them that interpreter services are available. Building Relationships: The personalised, informal approach is tantamount to building community relationships Group participants sharing lunch with the presenters after the session is invaluable in building trust and connections Strongly forged relationships between groups and presenters can have positive flow on effects (secondary outcomes) These relationships once established can result in a commitment to continue collaboration (sustainable).
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The group enjoyed [the session] and know where to go if they are at risk of homelessness. They now know about Windermere housing and other local housing services. They understand the waiting process at the Office of Housing. Now they know limitations of available housing, prevention to avoid risks and manage with their current housing. Most of them did not have this information before and so they wanted to discuss their problems and get assistance. They know more about the effects of family violence to their children. They now understand to report family violence to get assistance and protection. Most of the women now know about Intervention Orders. [The session] raised other questions and fears according to their beliefs. They now have good knowledge of Centrelink, the crisis payment, meeting eligibility criteria and getting support from a social worker. Now they have knowledge of getting financial assistance and counselling, budgeting, paying bills and linking to others e.g. landlords, estate agents, billing agencies etc. Now they know who to contact in crisis in order to secure their homes.