The housing crisis has become acute in Sweden. The housing market is marked by inequality, and many people are left behind. Martin Grander, a researcher at Malmö University, wants to change that. Together with Skåne Stadsmission, Save the Children, and AFRY, he has developed the “Children’s Housing First” model to combat homelessness among families with children.
More than 15,000 children in Sweden are experiencing homelessness, and an increasing number of families are affected. In Sweden, we have long been accustomed to viewing social problems as a cause of homelessness. What we are now seeing to an increasing extent is that people with no other issues than financial hardship are becoming homeless, and that homelessness itself leads to social problems such as mental health issues.
The consequences are serious: not having a stable home limits children’s ability to succeed in school, engage in meaningful leisure activities, form relationships, and maintain routines for eating, playing, and resting. A poor start in life reduces the chances of good health and employment in adulthood. The housing crisis in Sweden stands in the way of growth and risks cementing a negative trajectory for individuals, families, and society.
Researchers are seeking solutions for equitable housing
The research group“Studies in Housing and Welfare”brings together a number of researchers from various disciplines at Malmö University to study and find solutions for a more equitable housing market. The housing crisis is complex and encompasses many issues, ranging from housing availability and municipalities’ responsibility for housing provision, to financing models, overcrowding, homelessness, and the consequences of the housing crisis on public health.
“We study, analyze, share knowledge, and shape public opinion,” says Martin Grander, director of the research group Studies in Housing and Welfare.
“Through our research, we want to work toward a more equitable and socially sustainable housing supply in Sweden,” he says.
Collaborates with a range of organizations
In the "Children's Housing First" project, researchers have collaborated with Skåne City Mission, Save the Children, and AFRY. In addition, the cities of Malmö and Gothenburg, private and municipal property owners, the Swedish Enforcement Authority, and the County Administrative Board have participated in the project.
“Collaboration is, of course, incredibly important. I believe that research shouldn’t be conducted in an ivory tower but should always aim to make a practical difference, and that’s why collaboration with stakeholders who have practical and empirical knowledge of the field is essential. I think “Children’s Housing First” is a very good example of this, especially now that we see the proposal taking practical shape and being discussed in the City of Malmö,” says Martin Grander.
“Research is needed on methods and approaches that are effective”
Lena Wetterskog Sjöstedt is the director of Skåne Stadsmission. She works with families with children who are moving between temporary housing, people who are desperately seeking shelter, and people who are trying to get support and assistance but are unable to navigate the system.
– Goal 17 of the 2030 Agenda is key to sustainable development in Malmö, Skåne, Sweden, and the world. We see collaboration among the various stakeholders in society—nonprofit organizations, the business community, the public sector, politics, and academia—as the only viable path forward. We are working toward a society where people can exercise their rights and take control of their own lives. That is why research is needed on which methods and approaches actually produce that effect, and why these areas require constant research, says Lena Wetterskog Sjöstedt.
New model ready to use
The final report for the “Children’s Housing First” project was submitted to Vinnova in August 2020, including proposals for both short- and long-term solutions. In the short term, it was proposed that all families with children experiencing homelessness be guaranteed housing from day one and, for three months, receive individually tailored support, with the goal that after three months, the families would have a long-term, sustainable housing solution. In the long term, a socially sustainable housing policy was proposed, with a political framework that views housing as a social right.
"Housing First for Children" is based on the proven "Housing First" model and aims to give priority to homeless families with children. Through a first-choice lease, individually tailored support, and collaboration with relevant social services, homeless families with children will be provided with permanent housing and a more secure life.
“The model is ready to be implemented within the framework of Swedish law, provided that funding is available,” says Martin Grander.
“In the fields of housing development and social work at Malmö University, there are courageous researchers who are challenging the systems and various approaches. This is essential if we are to make progress on ensuring every child’s right to a home. That’s why it feels especially rewarding to embark on this journey together,” says Lena Wetterskog Sjöstedt.
The City of Malmö wants to take a closer look at the model
The Labor Market and Social Services Committee of the City of Malmö has now decided to take a closer look at the model for combating homelessness among families with children.
“We want to encourage various stakeholders and community organizations to try out the model. For this initiative to succeed, we need a direct lease agreement with a property owner who accepts public assistance as a form of income. And we also need to secure funding for our support programs for independent living,” says Lena Wetterskog Sjöstedt.
“Through the ‘Homes for Children First’ initiative, the City of Malmö can now demonstrate that it is prepared to make a social investment in the next generation,” she adds.
If Skåne Stadsmission launches a program under the “Housing First for Children” initiative, Malmö City’s role in the project could, for example, be to offer employment support to participating families in collaboration with the other stakeholders.