How do you stay at home if you don’t have a home? Experiences of homeless persons at homeless shelters in Tshwane, South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT

Many homeless persons experience poverty, social marginalization, poor physical and mental health, and substance abuse disorders, which were all brought into sharp focus during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hence, the study explored the experiences of homeless persons at homeless shelters in Tshwane, South Africa during the period from 20 March to 25 April 2020 when the country was in hard lockdown. Guided by a qualitative case study research design, face-to-face interviews were conducted with nine homeless people. In terms of results, the main reasons for becoming homeless were drug problems and stealing; and domestic challenges and conflicts. Benefits from temporary accommodation at one or more shelters during the pandemic included the themes of safety, comfort and provision of basic needs; the opportunity to come off drugs and learn new skills; and assistance with family re-unifications. Challenges included difficulty complying with COVID-19 regulations under overcrowded conditions and living under stringent rules; violence; resentment at being treated like children; and issues around dietary needs, late delivery of food and leaking tents. Findings highlight the need for a review of the Tshwane homeless policy, integration of services and contingency plans for future national crises.

KEYWORDS:

• Homelessness
• homeless persons
• homeless shelters
• COVID-19 pandemic
• South Africa

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.

Notes on contributors

Rivonia Mathole

Rivonia Mathole is a professional social worker employed as a Community Development Officer in the Department of Health, Tshwane Municipality, South Africa. The current article is based on her M. Phil in Social Policy and Development completed at the University of Johannesburg.

Eleanor Ross

Eleanor Ross is a Visiting Professor of Social Work attached to the Centre for Social Development in Africa, University of Johannesburg.