2012 Conference Proceedings

Implementing Housing First: Interim Findings from a Mixed Methods Fidelity Evaluation

Implementing Housing First:  Interim Findings from a Mixed Methods Fidelity Evaluation

Macnaughton, Eric, Mental Health Commission of Canada
Nelson, Geoff, Wilfrid Laurier University
Rae, Jennifer, University of Ottawa

The At Home/Chez soi project is a demonstration project examining the Pathways/Housing First (HF) model in five sites across Canada (Moncton, Montreal, Toronto, Winnipeg & Vancouver).  In contrast to the usual continuum of care model (or “supportive housing”), HF works by offering immediate access to regular apartments and providing mobile support, regardless of traditional “readiness” criteria (e.g. engagement in mental health care).   Consistency of implementation with critical ingredients of an intervention is a significant factor in achieving successful outcomes for project participants.  Thus, in order to guide implementation, the project is using a mixed methods fidelity evaluation.   By examining quantitative and qualitative data on implementation fidelity and process, the project is gaining an understanding of the extent to which implementation achieves fidelity to best practices (how it compares to the way the program was originally designed), but also understanding implementation challenges and adaptations. This poster will describe the research process as well as findings, which highlight:  the importance of housing procurement strategy in addressing insufficient housing supply and discrimination, the value of team cohesion and leadership in preventing burnout, and the nuances and significance of offering “choice” over housing.

Author(s)

Eric Macnaughton, Geoff Nelson, Jennifer Rae

Macnaughton, Eric, Mental Health Commission of Canada (emacnaug@shaw.ca)
Nelson, Geoff, Wilfrid Laurier University
Rae, Jennifer, University of Ottawa

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