Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to describe a qualitative study using an idiographic approach to explore professionals’ experience of working with homeless people. The paper took account of the approaches taken by these professionals and the perceived affects and influences inherent in their work.
Design/methodology/approach
– The paper used semi-structured interviews and an interpretative phenomenological analysis methodology to explore the professionals’ experience of working with homeless people, with a sample of ten participants (professionals) working within the field.
Findings
– Three major themes emerged: helplessness; awareness of early traumas; and frustration at the response of mainstream mental health services. These findings support the view that a specialised personality disorder clinic would help professionals to refer complex cases to mental health services for a comprehensive package of support and care.
Originality/value
– There is limited research into the emotions of professionals working in a difficult clinical settings associated with homeless clients. The paper will help clinicians, health professionals and commissioners identify the coping skills and the resources and tools to support the needs and demands of these service users.