An exploration into the impact the use of a night shelter service has in the health of asylum seekers experiencing destitution

Abstract

The rising number of asylum seekers experiencing destitution in the U.K. is a key issue within research. This ‘hidden’ population cannot access mainstream homeless services or welfare support leaving them heavily reliant on friends, family and voluntary organisations. The Glasgow Night Shelter for Destitute Asylum seekers provides emergency shelter accommodation to males who fit this remit. There is a huge gap in research regarding the provision of services to this group and how this impacts on their wellbeing. This study used ethnographic methods (participant observation and interviews), over a 3-week data period, to explore the use of this shelter and how it impacts on the wellbeing of people using it. The findings of the study demonstrate that this service positively influences health of guests through the provision of basic shelter, organisational procedures, informal care structures (for more vulnerable individuals) and as a space for creating social capital. However, the demand for this service is growing and the delivery of these provisions and subsequent impact on health are constrained by structural barriers such as staffing, time and space limitations. This study has implications for the wider exploration into the wellbeing, coping strategies and use of services by this extremely vulnerable population.