Where will you sleep tonight? Housing support for homeless people in Nova Gorica

Maja Zavrtanik (2014) Where will you sleep tonight? Housing support for homeless people in Nova Gorica. Diploma thesis.

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Abstract

This thesis focusses on the issue of providing adequate housing and housing support for homeless people in Nova Gorica. In the theoretical section, the wider phenomenon of homelessness is defined. I begin by highlighting the importance of the home, the right to housing and the role of government to ensure that right. I then outline the vulnerable groups which are most exposed to housing exclusion. Next I present different definitions of homelessness and the causes, characteristics and methods of solving this problem while taking care to point out possible negative effects. I show some of the existing methods of solving the housing problem in Slovenia and put forth examples of good practice. This is followed by a study exploring the phenomenon of homelessness in Nova Gorica and also the existing opportunities to develop housing support for homeless people in this area. From interviews with representatives of various organizations and institutions that deal with this phenomenon I find that in Nova Gorica there is no program in place to address the housing problem of the homeless. These people have neither shelter nor dwelling units, and no access to long-term accommodation. The problem of homelessness is addressed partially and each case is solved separately. Although homelessness is gradually becoming recognized as a serious issue that requires appropriate treatment, ideas and plans for remedying the problem are not yet put into practice. Currently, the biggest obstacles are lack of suitable housing stock, state-financial limitations and negative attitudes among the local population toward the homeless.

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