An evaluation of homeless women’s experiences of mental health services in Cork - a feminist perspective

Loading...
Thumbnail Image
Files
2013_TrishConnolly.pdf(1.04 MB)
Published Version
Date
2013-10-04
Authors
Connolly, Trish
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Community-Academic Research Links, University College Cork
Published Version
Research Projects
Organizational Units
Journal Issue
Abstract
Background to the study: Women’s experiences of mental health and homelessness are multi-faceted and undeniably intertwined. Yet both are social problems hidden from the political and social agenda despite calls from women’s groups and lobbyists (NWCI & Women’s Health Council) to change this. The ‘revolving door’ between mental health services and homelessness is a clear indication that services do not adequately respond to these women’s needs. The Good Shepherd Aftercare services (hereafter referred to as GSS) have taken the initiative to research this area due to an increasing number of their clients presenting with mental health difficulties. The GSS anticipates the findings will enable them to tailor services that would meet the client’s specific needs. Objectives: The overall objectives of this study are to firstly: review the literature relating to women’s mental health and homelessness from a feminist perspective. Secondly: to compile a list of mental health support services in the Cork area. Thirdly: to gain the perspectives of the women who access the GSS on what their experiences of mental health services were, to use this information to address ‘gaps’ in current service and identify areas where innovative change can be applied.
Description
Keywords
Homeless women , Women’s mental health , Mental health services
Citation
Connolly, T. (2013) An evaluation of homeless women’s experiences of mental health services in Cork - a feminist perspective. Cork: Community-Academic Research Links, University College Cork.
Copyright
©2013, Trish Connolly.