Supporting Mental Health in Homelessness

Written by Cory Spence – Wellbeing Practitioner

Working in homelessness has shown me that  

“Behind every person needing support is a story most people never see.” 

Many people experiencing homelessness have experienced trauma, loss, unsafe relationships, poor mental health, poverty or addiction long before they ever lose a place to call home.  Poor mental health can make it even harder to maintain stability, relationships and hope for the future. That is why  

“Support in homelessness services must go beyond providing accommodation alone.” 

It is important that homelessness services recognise the emotional and psychological impact of what people have been through. Taking a trauma-informed approach means responding with compassion, dignity, safety and understanding while helping people avoid being re-traumatised.

My role began in Bangor temporary accommodation as a wellbeing practitioner. I supported people who were experiencing poor mental health and substance use issues, helping them through difficult periods in their lives.

“People experiencing homelessness are often carrying far more than the loss of a home.”

Many are dealing with trauma, exclusion, grief, relationship breakdowns and the daily pressures that come with instability and uncertainty.74% of people surveyed in our services had a diagnosed mental health condition, almost four times higher than the Northern Ireland average.   

Having dedicated wellbeing support means they have someone to listen consistently, support them without judgement and encourage them towards recovery in a compassionate and person-centred way. Together, we work on understanding their experiences, developing healthier coping strategies and helping them feel less alone.

Supporting mental health in homelessness services is also about creating workplaces where staff feel supported, valued and able to continue providing safe and compassionate care. Teams can be exposed to crisis, trauma, grief and high emotional pressure, which, without support, can lead to stress, burnout and compassion fatigue.

I delivered compassion fatigue sessions to help staff better understand the emotional impact of their work and the importance of looking after their own wellbeing. I also supported staff following difficult incidents and guided them towards further support where needed.

A challenging time involved supporting staff after the loss of a much-loved colleague who sadly passed away.

“It reminded us all how important space, compassion and support are — not just for the people we help, but for each other too.”

I am now working as a Specialist Wellbeing Worker. In this role, I organise wellbeing activities and information sessions focused on mental health and substance use, both in groups and on a one-to-one basis with the people we support.

I help people build coping skills, improve their wellbeing and access additional support where needed. A big part of the work is encouraging social connection and helping people feel part of both Simon Community and the wider community as they move towards independent living. We know this works. 78% of people who engaged with our wellbeing support in 2024/25 said they saw a real improvement in how they felt. Those are people who are beginning to rebuild confidence and hope for the future. For me,

“This work is about recognising the humanity in every person” 

and understanding that wellbeing matters at every level of a homelessness service. Whether it is supporting someone with their mental health and recovery, helping staff manage the emotional impact of their work, or creating opportunities for connection and community, wellbeing support has a vital role to play.

“Sometimes having someone listen, support you consistently and remind you that you matter can be the first step towards feeling hopeful again. I know this works. I see it in people I work with every day.”

Across our website, you can read more real stories, insights from frontline staff and learn more about how Simon Community Northern Ireland is supporting people experiencing homelessness across Northern Ireland.