M1 · Understanding Homelessness
M1
Slide 19
SYNTHESIS
Integrative Synthesis
Homelessness as a Systemic and Health-Relevant Condition
1. Defining and Categorising Homelessness
Using ETHOS Light, we moved beyond a narrow focus on street homelessness.
We identified six operational categories that include:

Visible rooflessness

Temporary accommodation

Institutional discharge

Hidden homelessness

This broader framework highlights that housing instability often begins long before individuals appear in emergency shelters.

Defining and Categorising Homelessness

Definitions determine visibility → Visibility determines intervention.
For Integrated Health and Social Care (IHSC), adopting a multidimensional definition enables earlier identification and prevention.