Provider Perspectives on LGBTQ+ Youth Homelessness in Delaware

Abstract

Objective: This article details the results of focus groups with providers who work with LGBTQ+ youth experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness in Delaware. Methods: Researchers interviewed 16 service providers in four focus groups held between May 24, 2023 and June 5, 2023. Providers included housing support specialists, social workers, community health workers, school counselors, mental health care providers, and other community-servicebased practitioners. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews conducted via Zoom, and the authors utilized inductive coding to identify emerging themes. Results: Throughout Delaware, there are limited housing and public health supports in place for LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. Even when services are available, LGBTQ+ young people may have difficulty accessing them due to age restrictions, shelter segregation by sex or gender, or safety concerns. Providers working with this population face challenges including limited funding and staff, and a lack of specialized training. Changes at the local and state level—including increased funding, enhanced access to specialized training, and greater inclusivity on administrative forms—are important first steps to ensuring providers can adequately provide services to LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. Conclusions: LGBTQ+ youth are more likely to experience homelessness than their cisgender and heterosexual peers and yet face greater barriers to housing services throughout Delaware. The unique needs of this population necessitate specialized services and programs to ensure all young people have access to basic needs such as housing. Policy Implications: The provider perspectives in this paper offer a firsthand account of the challenges of serving this population and opportunities for improvement in policy creation and program administration.