McGrath, Liz; (1999) Keyworker and resident perceptions of keyworking relationships in hostels for young homeless people. Doctoral thesis (Ph.D), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

The aim of the present study was to describe the keyworking relationship in hostels for young homeless people from the point of view of both residents and keyworkers. More specifically, it aimed to identify the perceptions of keyworkers and residents in relation to: the role of the keyworker; the aims and functions of keyworking; and the characteristics of a helpful and less helpful keyworking relationship. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 residents and 10 keyworkers. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (Smith, 1995, 1997), a qualitative approach, was used to guide both the data collection and the analysis. The findings from the qualitative analysis yielded similar themes from keyworkers and residents in relation to each of the areas being addressed. Key elements perceived to be central to the keyworking relationship include the importance of providing a comfortable non-threatening environment for keyworking, being flexible, and tailoring keyworking to the individual needs of the residents. However, although flexibility was seen to be helpful, the lack of clarity around the role of the keyworker generated stress and anxiety for some keyworkers. Approachability, genuineness, sensitivity, empathy and respect were all seen to be characteristics of a good keyworker. The findings are discussed in the light of current research on youth homelessness and previous research on psychological helping and keyworking in other settings. Some preliminary recommendations for working effectively with young homeless people are made.

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