WHOSE CHOICE, HOSTELS OR HOMES - POLICIES FOR SINGLE HOMELESS PEOPLE

A marked increase in the prevalence of homelessness among single peopl e has coincided with a renewed debate concerning the nature of the pro blem and the most appropriate policy response. The paper provides a br ief discussion of these developments before presenting the key finding s of a study of the closure of Alvaston Resettlement Unit, near Derby. These findings relate primarily to white men, but the paper considers what they indicate about the experiences, wants and needs of single h omeless people in general. In particular, the study revealed an enormo us diversity in lifestyles and aspirations which suggests that the 'go od-housekeeping' model of resettlement may often be inappropriate. The paper calls for a pluralistic approach which recognises an important role for direct access hostels.