A rapid review of practices to support people experiencing homelessness during COVID-19

Abstract

Purpose

People experiencing homelessness are uniquely vulnerable to the impacts of a pandemic, such as COVID-19. Therefore, governments across Canada have been implementing a patchwork of responses to address the needs of those who are homeless at this time. The purpose of this study is to both compile and assess the varying responses by exploring the breadth of actions presented in print and social media.

Design/methodology/approach

Rapid review methodology is a means of compiling a breadth of information to compare and contrast policy implementations. Herein, the authors provide a comprehensive rapid review of responses to homelessness considered through a health equity lens.

Findings

Based on policy implementations to date, the authors offer eight recommendations of potentially promising practices among these responses. Situated within a capabilities approach, the authors call upon governments to provide a full breadth of responses to ensure that both health and housing are better protected and obtained during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Originality/value

This paper presents the first comprehensive review of local government responses to homelessness in the context of COVID-19.

Citation

Oudshoorn, A., Benjamin, T., Smith-Carrier, T.A., Benbow, S., Marshall, C.A., Kennedy, R., Hall, J., Caxaj, C.S., Berman, H. and Befus, D. (2021), "A rapid review of practices to support people experiencing homelessness during COVID-19", Housing, Care and Support, Vol. 24 No. 3/4, pp. 105-122. https://doi.org/10.1108/HCS-11-2020-0018