Homelessness and welfare systems

In the research literature, increased attention has been given to the role of welfare states in shaping patterns and profiles of homelessness. This Chapter explores in depth the relationships between homelessness and welfare systems and examines variations in the extent and composition of homelessness across different types of welfare systems. This chapter also discusses how welfare and support systems may mediate and alleviate homelessness if the function well or may fail to do so if they do not provide adequate solutions and interventions.