Publications
Browse our publications to discover what works
We collaborate with academics, universities, and research groups to uncover what really helps people out of homelessness. Explore our growing body of work that includes randomised control trials, systematic reviews, policy papers, and books which help to fill the gaps in our understanding of homelessness.
Featured Publication
September 18, 2026
Mortality in people experiencing homelessness: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Published in the International Journal of Epidemiology (September 2026), this landmark systematic review and meta-analysis provides the clearest global picture yet of the relationship between homelessness and mortality. Led by researchers at Cardiff University and University College London, the project searched four primary databases through December 2024 and supplemented published findings with unpublished cohort data. In total, the study synthesises 116 studies involving 2,563,633 people with experience of homelessness and 129,292,553 controls — representing the largest evidence base ever compiled on this issue.
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April 21, 2024
The effectiveness of abstinence-based and harm reduction-based interventions
Substance use is higher among adults experiencing homelessness and can have terrible consequences but people who are homeless often face significant barriers when accessing public services. This review aims to understand the effectiveness of different substance use interventions for adults experiencing homelessness.
April 1, 2024
Ending Rough Sleeping Data Framework
This guide covers the data framework to measure success and track progress towards ending rough sleeping in England. It is intended for Local Authorities, Combined Authorities, or commissioned services wanting to understand what data is required to implement the framework, and how it will be used.
February 26, 2024
What Works Evidence Notes: Prison Discharge and Homelessness
This paper explores the link between homelessness and discharge from prison, providing key insights into the efficacy of current government programmes and promising new initiatives.
February 7, 2024
Case Management Report
This report breaks down key findings from over 100 studies on case management and what makes it effective when supporting people out of homelessness.
January 18, 2024
Homelessness, Refugees and Resettlement in the UK
This report sheds light on the challenges faced by refugees being resettled in the UK. Exploring the connection between poverty, education, health inequalities and housing, it emphasises the role housing plays in shaping the destiny of those on the edge of society. The report highlights that refugees bear a disproportionate burden, often facing multiple challenges and disadvantages when trying to find stable accommodation.
August 10, 2023
Evidence and Gap Maps Implementation: Fourth Edition
Also known as the ‘why things work or not’ map, the Fourth Edition of the Implementation Map looks at qualitative evaluations concerning homelessness interventions. The latest edition showcases 597 studies – an increase from the initial 246 studies back in 2018. This growth underscores the growing global interest in understanding homelessness interventions. Notably, 191 of these studies have been added since the previous edition, demonstrating the continual expansion of our knowledge.
July 24, 2023
The impacts of Lifelong Links on housing outcomes for young people leaving care
This study shows a promising solution to reducing the risk of homelessness among young people leaving care. Looking at Lifelong Links, an intervention connecting children in care with a support network of trusted adults, reduces the risk of homelessness by 10%.
May 17, 2023
Exploring the effect of case management in homelessness per components
Adequate housing is a basic human right. The many millions of people experiencing homelessness have a lower life expectancy and more physical and mental health problems. This report summarises the best available evidence relating to the components of case‐management interventions for people experiencing homelessness.
