There is a complex interplay between housing instability and mental health concerns associated with a range of other challenges such as stigma, loneliness and isolation, inadequate access to required supports, and low availability of suitable housing opportunities. Being able to choose housing that is suited to preferences and needs is a fundamental human right. Mind Australia’s Adult Housing and Support services provide mental health support to residents within our Haven and Supported Independent Living (SIL) facilities.

Evaluation of the Haven Program (2024)

La Trobe University completed a four-year evaluation of Mind’s Haven Program, which provides long-term, high-quality social housing and integrated psychosocial support to residents. The report summarises key findings acquired through analysing qualitative and quantitative data from 99 stakeholders, including residents, carers, and staff. 

Nearly all residents, carers and staff viewed the Haven Program as acceptable, appropriate and effective. The Haven Program stands out from other similar models due to several key factors. Firstly, it offers the option for long term housing, which sets it apart from others that may only provide temporary solutions. Additionally, the program’s recovery-oriented approach is a significant strength, as it prioritizes the well-being and progress of individuals. The presence of a strong peer community further enhances the program, as it fosters support and camaraderie among participants.  Furthermore, the home-like environment provided by the program contributes to its appeal, creating a sense of comfort and stability. Lastly, the quality of housing offered by the Haven Program is exceptional, ensuring that individuals have a safe and suitable place to call home. 

Learn more about Mind’s Haven residences 

Trajectories: the interplay between mental health and housing pathways (2020)

Mind Australia, in partnership with Australian Housing & Urban Research Institute (AHURI), has completed a two-year national study examining the relationship between the housing and mental health pathways of people with lived experience of mental ill-health.

The study found that safe, secure, appropriate and affordable housing is critical for recovery from mental ill-health and for being able to access appropriate support services. The quantitative analysis showed that poor and deteriorating mental health directly impact housing stability (as measured by forced moves and financial hardship). People who experienced severe psychological distress had an 89 per cent increased likelihood of financial hardship in the following year and a 96 per cent increased likelihood of financial hardship within two years. The quantitative analysis showed that mediating factors, such as social support, good general health, and accessing mental health and other health services, can reduce the likelihood of housing instability and shorten the length of time a person experiences mental ill-health.

Find out more on the Trajectories page

Exploring the impact of housing security on recovery in people with severe mental illness (2013)

As a novel supported housing model, this evaluation was conducted to document the experiences of tenants at Haven South Yarra. 

The very positive feedback about not only satisfaction with being a tenant but also the gains in independence, social participation, self-belief and illness stability that have been achieved by tenants, underscores the strong benefit of Haven South Yarra’s model of operation. While there are some outstanding challenges to overcome, the capacity to partner with a range of service providers and community groups, help identify and work to achieve recovery goals for clients, and most importantly promote opportunities for independence and social participation are key aspects of the model that were found to impact on outcomes.