Ministry of Defence
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Ex-service homelessness in London: publication of York University report
The Ministry of Defence has today welcomed the publication of research into homelessness amongst the ex-Service community by York University.
The study called "The Experiences of Homeless Ex Service Personnel in London" found that the percentage of Veterans in London's homeless population has reduced from 22 % in 1997 to 6 % in 2007. Key findings of the report included:
* Homeless veterans have better access to emergency accommodation and resettlement resources than other single homeless people.
* Less than one in six of those surveyed cited problems adjusting to civilian life as the cause of their difficulties.
* Only a small minority of homeless veterans reported vulnerabilities unique to Service life, such as combat related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Derek Twigg, Minster for Veterans, said:
"I welcome this report by the University of York on veterans' homelessness in London. This research highlights the significant progress that has been made in reducing ex-Service homelessness. It is also pleasing that the report recognises the value of initiatives we have undertaken in Defence and with our partners in the ex-Service charities and the Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG). In London this partnership centres on the Ex-Service Action Group on Homelessness (ESAG) which has become a model of good practice. We know there is more work to be done, and although most veterans make a successful transition to civilian life, we recognise that a minority face difficulties. This research will help the Government and the ex-Service community to take further action to address homelessness amongst our veterans".
York University was commissioned to undertake research into homelessness in London by the Ex-Service Action Group on Homelessness (ESAG) which involves ex-Service charities, MoD and the Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG). The aim was to assess the nature of the problem in London and the effectiveness of interventions in preventing homelessness.
The study surveyed 59 ex-Service personnel and follows an interim report published in June 2006. The report looked at the characteristics and experiences of homeless Veterans identified in the study; routes to homelessness and the effectiveness of provision for homeless Veterans in London.
The report has made a number of recommendations to further improve support available to homeless veterans. The MoD will now engage with other Government departments and our external partners to take forward these recommendations.
Notes to Editors
1. The report is available though http://www.york.ac.uk/chp
