Perceptions of homelessness gathered in survey

Views on the causes, support and level of homelessness are being gathered by the Isle of Man's Public Health Directorate.

The survey forms part of the government's overarching homeless strategy, which was launched in 2023.

Public Health's Madeleine Sayle said the results would feed the "long-term aim of eliminating homelessness" on the island.

The Isle of Man's only overnight shelter for the homeless closed in 2022.

The online questionnaire asks what people consider to be homeless, potential causes and support, as well seeking personal experiences.

The survey will also be sent to landlords and accommodation providers, Public Health said.

Ms Sayle said being without a home encompassed a number of situations, and determining public perception, "initially alongside any personal experience", was "important" to understand the nature of homelessness on the island.

Among the 25 questions, respondents are asked about what they perceive to be homeless, including sleeping rough on the streets, or in cars or boats..

It also asks for views on those living under threat of eviction or those in accommodation for migrant workers.

Other potential circumstances put forward include people due to be released from institutions and those in poverty or financial hardship.

The survey is also aimed at gauging to what extent those forms of homelessness exist on the island and what people considered to be the top three causes of it.

Options presented range from housing affordability and financial problems to relationship breakdowns and domestic abuse.

Public Health said the results of the survey would form "part of a needs assessment report", which would "consider 'at risk' groups and factors which influence an individual's chance of experiencing homelessness in their lifetime".

The survey is available online until 27 January.

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