In recent years, different forms of housing precarity and rising housing costs have become an issue for ever larger parts of society throughout Europe. One of the consequences are continuously high numbers of people experiencing homelessness, with almost 20,000 people affected in Austria alone. Official data usually do not reflect numerous unreported cases, e.g., people living in overcrowded spaces or stay with family and friends. Vienna has the largest homeless population in Austria, with 11,340 people registered via the central population register (Statistics Austria 2023).
While previous surveys in Austria have mostly depicted the extent and profile of homelessness, international studies suggest that qualitative data on the perspectives of people affected by homelessness can complement otherwise mostly quantitative studies. Qualitative perspectives and detailed insights into the transitions between different phases of homelessness and precarious housing can make an important contribution to research into the needs and problems of those affected. Especially in Vienna, with its broad system of support services, a qualitative study on experiences with different forms of housing can provide valuable insights.
The current project aims to analyze pathways into, out of, and through different phases of homelessness and precarious housing, and – adopting a biographical approach – to track housing trajectories of persons experiencing homelessness during their lifetime. Lived experiences of people affected by homelessness at the transitions between different phases allow us to gain insights into individual needs and personal lifeworlds. The following research questions lie at the center of the project:
This study aims to derive a phase model of homelessness and precarious housing based on the ETHOS-Light typology (Edgar et al. 2007) by conducting biographical interviews with people in long-term housing. Insights can support social work in social service organizations and guide housing trajectories towards stable long-term outcomes.
We investigate trajectories of homelessness and precarious housing conducting biographical interviews with formerly homeless persons who are now living in Housing First apartments or other long-term forms of housing. During the interviews we collect data on paths into, through and out of homelessness, on personal experiences, as well as on service use and personal needs in different phases. Likewise, a thorough analysis of individual and structural factors resulting in a loss of housing and of conditions contributing to regaining are central elements of the project. Finally, we will assess interrelations of personal needs, lifeworlds in different phases of homelessness and precarious housing, and possible starting points for stable long-term housing trajectories, including the roles of social service organizations and existing housing offers.
August 2024 – July 2025
This project is funded by the City of Vienna's Department of Cultural Affairs (MA 7).