Social Housing provider for the New England North West region of NSW Homes North signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the University of New England (UNE) to better understand how homelessness and being housed impacts on people’s mental health.
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Homes North CEO Maree McKenzie said the 'Housing Essentials' research project will be ground-breaking at a national level.
Having quantitative data and neuroscience behind us will really lift our service to a new level.
- Maree McKenzie
“This research and partnership with UNE will be leading the way in the social housing sector, nationally. Homes North is funding two PhD research bursaries, which will result in new insights to relate to anybody experiencing homelessness or being newly housed,” she said.
“Scientific insights will enhance our approaches to people who are homeless, to better target and be sensitive to their needs."
Ms McKenzie described signing an MoU alongside UNE vice-Chancellor Professor Annabelle Duncan as a milestone.
"We’ve been wanting to partner in research and training initiatives for quite a while and this MoU with UNE kicks a number of goals for us and our region,” she said.
Ms McKenzie said the sector had seen relatively little high-level research behind the development of knowledge, approaches and practices.
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“As practitioners, we have anecdotal evidence, but it is subjective, resulting from the experiences of our staff.” she said.
UNE Vice-Chancellor Professor Annabelle Duncan said it was a great opportunity for the University to help a community organisation support some of the most vulnerable in our communities throughout the New England North West.
“Ultimately, homes north staff at the coalface will be better equipped to assist community housing tenants have fulfilling, productive lives and contribute to their communities,” Prof Duncan said.
“This project is a really good innovation for both UNE and Homes North."
