Evaluation of a financial skills training programme for vulnerable young people at risk of homelessness

Abstract

Introduction A financial skills training programme (Cash Pointers) for young people at risk of homelessness had an unexpectedly positive impact on their wellbeing. A qualitative inquiry examined this phenomenon. Method Interviews with six trainees explored their experiences of the programme. A focus group comprising four programme workers added a service provider perspective. Findings Cash Pointers addressed trainees’ basic living and health needs. Additionally, trusting relationships with programme workers enabled trainees to feel safe, develop skills, pursue goals, manage health problems, improve relationships and engage in life roles. Trainees said Cash Pointers was accessible and responsive, offering advocacy, inter-agency liaison and hope. Programme workers said they balanced the need for quick results with patient relationship-building, were a well-supported team with a high degree of casework autonomy and felt skilled in the therapeutic use of self. Conclusion Cash Pointers created a psychologically informed environment within which trainees stabilised, acquired skills and progressed towards greater life satisfaction and inclusion. Improving financial skills can be profoundly transformative and an acceptable intervention for this population. Aspects of occupational therapy’s knowledge-base (dynamic systems thinking) and skillset (person-centred goal-setting, therapeutic use of self, creating enabling environments) can support this.