The Definition of Homelessness

Man looking at camera. what is the definition of homelessness?
Photo Credit - Centre for Homelessness Impact

The definition of homelessness is difficult to pinpoint.

What is homelessness and how does it affect us?

In simple terms, homelessness is defined as:

  • the state of being unhoused or without shelter;
  • that is in stable, safe, and functional condition.

    • This means experiencing homelessness can include a range of circumstances like being at risk of domestic violence, owning or renting property which is in an unlivable state or living in a mobile home with nowhere to place it.

    However, everyone’s experiences of homelessness are unique making it difficult to truly pin down homelessness within a few sentences. Homelessness can also mean different things to different people. For instance, a person who has slept rough in the past may view sofa surfing as the most stable form of shelter they’ve had, making it seem less like homelessness in their eyes. While this person’s experiences would be valid, it’s clear that the legal definition of homelessness and a person’s own perception can differ widely.

    The above definition is purposefully broad to allow us to consider the many ways in which homelessness can occur, even without us being fully aware of it.

    There are four main types of homelessness a person can experience. These are:

  • Rough sleeping; living and sleeping in outside conditions often with little to no shelter from the elements
  • Statutory homelessness; this is when local authorities have deemed a person or household to have a ‘priority need’ and that it is the council’s duty to house them
  • Hidden homelessness; Most people experiencing homelessness are hidden from statistics and services as they manage their homelessness situation informally -whether through choice or not. This can include sofa surfing or squatting.
  • People at risk of homelessness; this category of homelessness means a person or household currently have adequate housing but that it is likely to change without support.

    • While people’s experiences can vary greatly based on what type of homelessness they have faced (which can change over time), the effects of all forms of homelessness can cause damage to people’s health and well-being. You can find out more about the forms of homelessness here

    Why do we say ‘a person experiencing homelessness’, not ‘a homeless person’?

    women at night standing on the street

    It’s important to remember that homelessness is an experience, not a defining state of being. If we define a person as being homeless we risk reducing their existence to one fact about their life. This can be demoralising for people trying to move away from homelessness and onto a better future.

    So what is homelessness?

    The definition of homelessness is an evolving concept. It is likely to continue changing over time as we better understand the experiences of people without fixed or safe accommodation. But one thing remains true: we can define homelessness but we can’t let it define us.