Homelessness is often misunderstood. For many, it’s thought to be the result of poor life choices or a lack of willingness to work. In reality, it can happen to anyone - and in many cases it’s caused by a complex mix of factors outside an individual’s control. Family breakdown, sudden loss of income, health problems, or simply the rising cost of living can all play a part.
In the construction industry, where skilled labour is in high demand, people with lived experience of homelessness represent an often-overlooked talent pool. Yet they face some of the toughest barriers to securing - and keeping - a job.
One of the biggest challenges is employer perception. Research shows that a significant proportion of employers admit they would be reluctant to hire someone without a permanent address - and some would consider ending an existing employee’s contract if they lacked secure housing. These attitudes not only block opportunities but can discourage individuals from asking for help when they need it most.
Individuals without stable housing face a number of practical hurdles to securing employment. Applying for and sustaining employment becomes much harder without the things many of us take for granted. A fixed address is still a standard requirement on most application forms. Access to a phone or the internet which is essential for job hunting and staying in touch with an employer may be limited or non-existent. Even getting to work can be a challenge without funds for travel or the right clothing for the role.
For some, disrupted education and periods of unemployment mean gaps in training or experience. Without recent references, applications are often overlooked before they’ve even been considered. Yet these are not signs of a lack of potential - only of a lack of opportunity.
Beyond these practical challenges, a lack of secure housing can have a huge impact on an individual’s wellbeing as the stress of homelessness takes a toll on both physical and mental health. Fatigue from poor-quality or unstable accommodation can affect concentration and attendance. Even the strain of hiding personal circumstances at work, for fear of discrimination, can be exhausting in itself.
However, despite these challenges, the construction industry is uniquely placed to help break this cycle. Many roles focus on practical skills that can be learned on the job, and teamwork is at the heart of most projects. By offering structured training, flexible recruitment processes, and a supportive work environment, construction employers can create life-changing opportunities for individuals who just need a chance to prove themselves.
Breaking down the barriers to employment for people who have been homeless is a practical response in a sector facing skills shortages. Tapping into overlooked talent can strengthen teams, improve retention, and foster a more inclusive, values-led culture.
The link between housing and employment is clear. A secure place to live gives people the stability and rest needed to work effectively. In turn, reliable employment provides the income and structure that make it possible to secure and maintain a permanent home.
At We Are Footprint, we’ve seen first-hand that when given the right support - from help with transport and workwear to mentoring and skills development - people who have experienced homelessness can thrive in the workplace. They often bring resilience, problem-solving abilities, and an appreciation for steady work that contribute positively to their teams and the wider organisation, benefitting both them and the business.
