Open Access

Anna Xymena Tissot, Frank Sowa, Nora Sellner

• In Germany, dealing with homelessness as a ‘social problem’ involves providing shelter as well as social support. Shelter and social support are typically provided first, eventually followed by various forms of assisted living if housing in a private accommodation appears unattainable. The Housing First approach, originally developed in the United States, is different as providing housing (with a lease in the individual’s name) is the very first step in the assistance process. Recently, several Housing First projects have been developed and implemented in various regions of Germany. This chapter draws on broader research into various Housing First pilot projects emerging in Northern Bavaria, shedding light on the impact of the basic principles on the two main groups of actors involved: social workers and formerly homeless individuals as new tenants. The focus is on how social work support is perceived and experienced within the Housing First context, and how it is practiced. Our findings suggest that the implementation of HousingIn Germany, dealing with homelessness as a ‘social problem’ involves providing shelter as well as social support. Shelter and social support are typically provided first, eventually followed by various forms of assisted living if housing in a private accommodation appears unattainable. The Housing First approach, originally developed in the United States, is different as providing housing (with a lease in the individual’s name) is the very first step in the assistance process. Recently, several Housing First projects have been developed and implemented in various regions of Germany. This chapter draws on broader research into various Housing First pilot projects emerging in Northern Bavaria, shedding light on the impact of the basic principles on the two main groups of actors involved: social workers and formerly homeless individuals as new tenants. The focus is on how social work support is perceived and experienced within the Housing First context, and how it is practiced. Our findings suggest that the implementation of Housing First offers both groups a range of possibilities and options of action, underlying constant negotiations about the types of services and support that can be offered, accepted or denied, and how the relationship between social workers and new tenants is co-produced and performed.…