Abstract
Background: Homelessness is a major social, health and economic problem with many homeless persons experiencing poverty, social marginalization, poor physical and mental health, and substance abuse disorders, which were all brought into sharp focus during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Aim: The aim of the study was to examine the situation of homelessness during the COVID-19 pandemic from the perspective of homeless persons and service providers at the homeless shelters in Tshwane, Gauteng.
Method: The research adopted a case study research design located within a qualitative research approach and was guided by the social development approach. Ten homeless people were interviewed through semi-structured face-to-face interviews, while the five service providers were interviewed via Zoom & MS Teams. Braun and Clarke’s (2006) six step model of thematic analysis was employed to analyse the results.
Results: The key findings. that emerged revealed that most of the homeless people who were interviewed felt that their basic needs were met by the shelters during COVID-19; however, some homeless persons were used to the freedom afforded by their lifestyle and had difficulty adapting to a more structured existence. It was also difficult to maintain social distancing in the overcrowded shelters. Despite the difficulties and challenges experienced in working at the shelters during the pandemic, the service providers derived a sense of fulfilment in their roles and saw the experience as a learning opportunity.
Conclusions: The violent behaviour and stealing that occurred among some of the homeless persons underscored the difficulties of working with this population group. Nevertheless, despite complaints by some homeless persons, the homeless shelters established during COVID-19 pandemic were of critical value for the homeless population. The findings also highlight the need for review of the Tshwane homeless policy, a need for integration of services and a need for contingency plans for any future national crises.
Key Words: Homelessness, Homeless shelters, Services for homeless people, COVID-19 pandemic.