Early Exit Essay

Importance of an Early Exits Out-Of Homelessness: It is important to find an early exit out of homelessness because a longer stay can make it less likely for an exit out of homelessness. Many who enter into homelessness first encounter youth hostels, emergency accommodations and Out of Hours Services (OHS). In these accommodations, it is very likely for a young person to engage with other peers living in the hostel or care setting and get involved in the ‘homelessness scene’. In these accommodations, a young person is typically provided with a bed at night, but has the entire day from early in the morning until late at night to be on the streets and find things to do. This is a period that many individuals in the study talked about getting involved with other homeless individuals and partaking in drugs, alcohol, criminal activity and violence. One young man who was 19 at the time said, "Everyone that was in it (adult hostel) was on it (heroin) ... Yeah, looking at them stoned and they’re all talking about it. The relief that it’s supposed to bring them so I just tried it and liked it”(Mayock et al 2008:130). This is a common statement that so many of the homeless youth individuals experience because they don’t feel that they have many other options. They are put into ‘risky’ accommodations and meet several individuals who are participating in these risky behaviors. One young man aged
Fewer transitions once in the system is important because the more movement between accommodations in homelessness can be harder for a young person to experience. With early exits being so important, that includes having access to stable housing. Housing must also be an affordable living situation for that young person and they will need support as well. That includes professionals, family, friends and job or educational support. With all of these factors, it is possible for a permanent exit outside of homelessness (Mayock et al.,