Mental health, social inclusion and housing: Mapping the issues for service providers Introduction Good-quality, safe and suitable accommodation is one of the cornerstones of well-being, and individuals with mental health difficulties are no different in this respect from any others in society. Alongside financial security, constructive activity and a welcoming family or social circle, good housing is one of the most common aspirations of service users and their carers. For many people, access to decent housing, with the appropriate support to help manage the ordinary tasks of living, can be the key to finding a better quality of life, achieving a positive relationship with immediate neighbours, maintaining independence and having an accepted ‘place’ in the local community. Disadvantage in the housing market Yet there is strong evidence to suggest that people who use mental health services are also at a distinct disadvantage in the housing market. • Those with mental health problems are significantly under-represented in owner- occupier housing - generally seen as the most socially valued and secure housing in contemporary Britain (Meltzer et al, 2002). • There are recent reports (Boyle & Jenkins, 2003: SCMH, 2002) that identify shortage of suitable accommodation, including in particular of supported accommodation, as a major factor in delayed discharge from hospital (or ‘bed blocking’). • Mental health problems figure high among the identified risk factors for tenancy breakdown (Slade et al, 1999) - just as 10 Housing, care and support 7.2 June 2004 © Pavilion Publishing (Brighton) Ltd PRACTICE ROBIN JOHNSON RJA Research and Consultancy Abstract Social inclusion means ensuring that all individuals, despite any particular perceived ‘differentness’ (Sayce, 2000; Harrison & Davis, 2001) or disadvantage in life, may nevertheless feel at home in the world and find a sense of belonging in their local community. But the most important place to feel at home is at home.