Resolving long-term homelessness: A randomised controlled trial examining the 36 month costs, benefits and social outcomes from the Journey to Social Inclusion pilot program

The Journey to Social Inclusion pilot program was designed to break the cycle of long-term homelessness. The pilot provided intensive support for three years to assist people who were long-term homeless receive the range of services they need. This report presents the social and economic outcomes after the completion of the pilot. The evaluation used a randomised controlled trial to track and compare the outcomes of the J2SI participants (Group J) with those of an equivalent group of chronically homeless people (Group E) who were supported by existing services. After three years 80% of the original participants remained involved in the trial. The outcomes are promising. The evidence suggests that J2SI had a significant impact on the lives of most participants. After three years 85% of J2SI participants were housed compared to 41% of those who were receiving existing services. Over the course of the trial J2SI participants' were housed for 67% of the time, or nearly twice as much time as those in the control group (35%). The evidence confirms that that given the right level of support people who have experienced long-term homelessness can maintain their housing.