How London’s Health Systems Are Reaching People Experiencing Homelessness

Homelessness continues to be one of London’s most urgent health challenges. For those without a stable home, the consequences are stark - life expectancy can be cut short to the mid-40s, a sobering statistic that highlights the scale of the issue.

Yet, across the capital, there is momentum for change, with innovative partnerships reshaping the way healthcare is delivered to people experiencing homelessness.

One such initiative is the Homeless Health London Partnership, a coalition that brings together NHS Integrated Care Boards, regional agencies, and third-sector organisations. Their shared goal is to make healthcare more accessible, inclusive, and responsive for people without secure housing. By championing adaptability, collaboration, and person-centred care, this partnership is helping to break down barriers and ensure that no one is left behind.

Mildmay’s post-detox Rebuild Pathway is an important part of this city-wide effort. As a key element of the Pan-London Substance Misuse Programme, our pathway is designed to tackle the health inequalities faced by people experiencing homelessness who are recovering from substance misuse. Many of our patients arrive needing more than medical intervention; they need stability, continuity, and a care plan that honours their entire journey. Drawing on decades of experience in central London, we know that combining

 access to healthcare with secure housing can be truly transformative.

Elsewhere, North West London’s Out-of-Hospital Care Model offers a glimpse of what’s possible. Integrated teams of GPs, nurses, housing specialists, allied health professionals, and social care advocates have worked together to achieve a 54% reduction in rough sleeping and a 200% increase in people moving into temporary accommodation. These results show the impact of multidisciplinary collaboration and a holistic approach.

As London continues to develop its neighbourhood health model, bringing together GPs, mental health professionals, community services, social care, and voluntary sector partners—the opportunity for lasting change has never been greater (england.nhs.uk).

At Mildmay, we are ready to do more. By working closely with NHS programmes and local partners, we are committed to ensuring that inclusion health is not a temporary project, but the foundation of healthcare for all Londoners, in every borough.