Need for integrated care to homeless people in community

Trnava University in Trnava, Trnava, Slovakia

^* Corresponding author: martina.zakova@truni.sk

Abstract

This paper focuses on marginalized clients who are often condemned for their lifestyle. Because of their way of life and community approach, they need help from several experts to solve their living or social situation. Interdisciplinary cooperation is therefore highly beneficial for the clients. However, it is more effective if integrated care exists in the community where these clients live. The aim of this paper is to find out the situation with the integrated care for homeless people in communities. We used semi-structured interviews. We interviewed 7 social workers who work with homeless people directly in the community where these clients live. We also discuss what experts are needed in this field, and we justify their necessity. Research results show that social workers' opinion is that integrated care directly in the community, where homeless people are, would be very helpful since homeless people are afraid to ask for services. Social workers would welcome if experts were willing to work with them directly with clients in the community. They also consider that their clients need hygiene centres and leisure activities. Conclusions – integrated care for homeless people is needed in communities. The results can serve as a description of integrated care in community to provide the best care for people who need their help.