Critical Characteristics of Supported Housing: Resident and Service Provider Perspectives

The purpose of this research was to develop an understanding of important characteristics of supported housing (SH) for individuals with serious mental illnesses. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with residents of SH and service providers. Data were analyzed using the constant comparative approach. Four central themes emerged from data analysis: SH as a foundation for recovery, guiding values for SH, supports offered in SH, and neighbourhood/community context. This research has uncovered several key characteristics of SH that can be used to guide the development of new housing programs, to review current programs, as a tool for self-advocacy, and as the foci for further research.