Evidence on programs to address youth homelessness

Abstract

This Evidence Check review looked at the grey and peer reviewed literature related to the effectiveness of programs to support children and young people (10-17 years) at risk of homelessness. It aimed to identify key features of effective programs, core/common elements of the included programs and in establishment and rollout, and challenges and facilitators. Twenty programs were included, with 4 rated as “evidence based” and 7 as “promising”, 9 were considered to have insufficient evidence. Programs were also categorised into the following themes – in descending order of evidence: family therapy, intensive case management, service capacity building and early intervention.