Assessing the impact of COVID-19 on community-based agencies serving homeless persons with concurrent disorders in BC

Dr. Young received a BC Ministry of Health Institutional Grant to study the impacts of COVID-19 isolation practices on service provision to homeless persons with concurrent disorders.

Social isolation protocols associated with responses to COVID-19 have radically affected the delivery of services to homeless persons with concurrent disorders (HPCD). The resulting in gaps in services have further marginalized this disadvantaged population by restricting or eliminating access to services essential for their safety and survival. Using mixed methods this research identifies and examines changes in service delivery to HPCD during the pandemic from the vantage point of social and health-based service providers working in community-based health and social service agencies in seven BC communities. The results will inform policy development and rapid response protocols for future crises.