The challenge
Shelter wanted to replicate one of their existing family support services in Newham and Newcastle. In order to make the service as effective as possible and demonstrate the demand for it to a funder, Shelter would need to provide a range of research and evidence. We were commissioned to support this exercise.
What we did
We undertook research exploring the need, potential design and delivery for the service with young people, including some of the intended end recipients. We conducted a qualitative study exploring issues related to housing and homelessness through five focus groups with young people across Newham and Newcastle. Our experience of conducting research into sensitive subjects enabled us to facilitate in-depth explorations of the needs and experiences of the studied groups.
Our impact
Our final report exposed the broader context in which housing issues and homelessness were experienced in Shelter’s target communities. The study also investigated experiences of support, with recommendations on how Shelter’s proposed service might best meet those needs.