In recent years the problem of homelessness has escalated into a critical social issue stimulating a wave of concern from the voluntary sector, pressure groups and policy makers. As shopfronts, underpasses and doorways are transformed into hotels for the needy, the shock of homelessness becomes ever more public. These homeless people are the most vulnerable sector of the population to illness and disease and, as they are not part of the system, they are the most isolated from the welfare services.

In recent years the problem of homelessness has escalated into a critical social issue stimulating a wave of concern from the voluntary sector, pressure groups and policy makers. As shopfronts, underpasses and doorways are transformed into hotels for the needy, the shock of homelessness becomes ever more public. These homeless people are the most vulnerable sector of the population to illness and disease and, as they are not part of the system, they are the most isolated from the welfare services.