Physical Health

Homeless people are more at risk of certain physical health conditions. Due to barriers to accessing the services they need, many homeless people experience physical health needs for a prolonged period or have conditions which are left untreated or undiagnosed.

The report from the Homeless Health Needs Audit, in which over 700 homeless people took part, showed that:

  • 8 out of 10 clients have one or more physical health need and over half have a long term physical health need.
  • Common conditions included joint and muscular problems (38%) and chest pain/breathing problems (32%).
  • Most clients felt they managed these needs well; however 1 in 5 said they found it difficult to cope and wanted support.

Higher rates of poor health can be linked to:

  • existing support needs, such as those relating to substance misuse, which can lower an individuals immune system or make treatment more complex
  • poor living conditions which can cause or exacerbate poor physical health
  • poor nutrition and diet: almost 1 in 3 clients in the audit ate less than one meal a day, and only 7% eat the recommended '5 a day'
  • a lack of awareness about their health needs and where to go for help
  • a low level of diagnosis and treatment, which can mean some conditions are left to worsen.

SOLUTIONS

A strong evidence base is vital to inform commissioning and advocate for appropriate health services. Homeless Link’s new health needs project aims to provide evidence to help address this gap of information.

There are a number of specialist GP practices and nurses working to provide health care for homeless people. However, it is also important that homeless people are supported to access mainstream health care provision.

Homeless Link’s Hostels handbook has information on health and health care promotion.

Further Information

Further resources can be found on the main health and homelessness page.