It is widely known that homelessness, especially rough sleeping, has
significant and negative consequences for an individual’s health. Many studies
have found strong correlations between homelessness and a multiplicity, and
increased severity, of both physical and mental health conditions.1
However, despite this increased morbidity, homeless people consistently miss
out on the healthcare they need. As a result, health problems are left untreated
and health deteriorates. When homeless people do access health services,
they are likely to do so in an unplanned way (for example through accident and
emergency) and to be in a state of chronic ill health. This results in longer
stays in hospital and multiple readmissions, and has clear cost implications for
the NHS.2