This study explores group intervention with women experiencing homelessness through the project El Patio de mi Casa, implemented by the Comprehensive Service for Homeless People in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The primary objective is to structure this methodology, which complements individual intervention, and to evaluate its relevance and areas for improvement. To this end, a qualitative study was conducted based on interviews with ten professionals from the centre who provided direct insights into the delivery of the project. The results show that group intervention has fostered the establishment of support networks while promoting solidarity and sisterhood among participants, enhancing their empowerment and helping them overcome situations of vulnerability. Through this intervention, women develop skills such as conflict resolution and strengthen their autonomy. Additionally, the participatory methodology enables women to make decisions in relation to the issues to be addressed, encouraging their active involvement in the intervention process. Challenges in implementation were also identified, including the need for adequate spaces and irregular attendance, which affects the sense of belonging. Furthermore, the absence of systematic assessments on the impact of group interventions was highlighted, hindering a clear demonstration of their effectiveness. Lastly, the study underscores the importance of an intersectional and gender-sensitive approach, essential for addressing the multiple dimensions of female homelessness, as well as the need for further research on these interventions in similar contexts.
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An approach to group intervention with women experiencing homelessness: an intersectional and gender-based perspective
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