Building aspiration when working with homeless young people in the UK: A case study

Researchers may identify the active elements that give care programs their efficacy by exploring practice wisdom. In doing so, this case study revealed the importance of developing aspiration as a key component in helping homeless young people to achieve positive outcomes. Qualitative research was conducted with a charity working with homeless young people in residential settings. Fieldwork observations (n = 11), semistructured interviews (n = 16) and focus groups (n = 3), were used to explore the importance building aspiration and how this was operationalized in practice. Taking a grounded theory approach, thematic and axial coding was used in the analysis of data. Findings: Findings confirmed that homeless young people often presented with low aspiration and presented insight into how practitioners might address this. Techniques to build aspiration were identified that improve the psychological state of the young person creating a realistic focus. Aspiration was shown to be built through the provision of knowledge, opportunities, and good social support. Applications: Practitioners should engage in constructive programs that build skills, confidence, and hope. Clients should focus on future possibilities and with active social support of care providers and the provision of opportunities, knowledge, and practical support to build realistic expectations. Such pro-social activities reduce negative impacts for homeless young people.