As many as 1 in 4 of us will experience a mental health condition or challenge every single year. Even with support in place, it can be very tough for anyone to manage these conditions. But for people experiencing homelessness, there are added barriers when it comes to accessing the help that’s so vital.
One survey found that over 50% of people experiencing homelessness were living with some kind of mental health condition, and it’s clear that the link between homelessness and mental health conditions is a complex but inescapable one.
Here we’re taking a look at some of the barriers to mental health support for those facing homelessness, and how Simon on the Streets is working hard to make a difference.
Reduced access to electronic devices
With so much of the healthcare system having moved online, those experiencing homelessness may find it impossible to access the right devices to make appointments and receive communications from their healthcare professional.
Even things like 2-factor authentication (which often requires access to two devices at once) can make things like logging into patient software tough. Without this access to the right technology, many people hit roadblocks before they’ve even begun the process of getting support.
Due to these early barriers, a large number of people bypass traditional routes and rely heavily on emergency services, such as A&E, to be seen by doctors. 2022 analysis by Homeless Link showed 48% of their survey respondents had used A&E services in the last year. That’s three times more than the general population.
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The need for interpreters
In November 2024, it was estimated that nearly 2,000 refugees were left without accommodation following their asylum in the UK. Many have fled conflict or unsafe countries and arrive carrying a lot of trauma and unable to speak the language.
This can make accessing the right kind of support difficult, as many people require an interpreter to help them communicate with healthcare professionals in order to understand the assistance being offered. This can create a very distressing environment and may even deter some people from seeking support in the first place.
If there aren’t enough interpreters with the specialist training required, we may see that some non-English speaking people face unjust inequalities in the mental health care system.
Perceived stigma
Many people experiencing homelessness, and those dealing with mental health challenges, all too often come up against social stigma.
Unfair stereotypes, assumptions and misrepresentations in the media can lead to a profound misunderstanding when it comes to homelessness and mental health. Ultimately, this can make it significantly harder for those experiencing these issues to overcome the problems they face, and make it difficult for them to feel welcome in society.
The reality for those facing homelessness is, of course, very different. Homelessness is an issue that sees the average mortality rate for men sitting at just 46, and even lower at 42 for women. Homelessness is an issue that means minor physical illnesses are left untreated and allowed to escalate. Homelessness is an issue that can see mental health concerns quickly spiral out of control, or start in the first place.
Homelessness is an issue that needs action and understanding, not our judgment.
Our outreach team works tirelessly to support the people we work with in finding and accessing the appropriate healthcare support. This ranges from helping them make the appointments to accompanying them and advocating for them in unfamiliar healthcare settings.
To support our work and help us reach our 25-year fundraising goal, you can make a donation here. Thank you for helping us to make a difference.