3. Amidst the most vulnerable voices: women and migrants in homeless situation with Alcohol UseDisorders (AUD)

Evidence exists that, among homeless persons with AUD, some groups are particularly difficult to reach, namely given their added layers of vulnerability, such as women and/or migrants. Yet, little research so far has been dedicated to discussing how to address this issue in practice. When designing harm reduction initiatives that consider such differences, to better tailor outreach interventions, how can the specific need of these groups be met? In this presentation, we will discuss the reported experience of women and migrants as participants of a harm reduction initiative during the SARS-Cov2 pandemic.

Drawing from the PLACE study, we analysed qualitative data from telephone interviews carried to women (5) and migrants (6) among the homeless persons with AUD that were admitted in new emergency shelters during 2020. Additionally, we carried two focus groups with clinical staff from the ES and with a group of stakeholders.

Women and migrants were two of the groups highlighted as part of an emerging trend that demands immediate and adapted interventions, though it was recognized that migrants more often face limitations and scarcity of solutions. Analysing and discussing the experience of these users allows for an identification of user-led priorities for future interventions.

The need of considering tailored harm reduction initiatives, in close relationship with personalized treatment pathways is relevant for these two groups, woman and migrants, with particular focus on the need for culturally sensitive and trauma informed care, and closer collaboration with services that provide adequate translation and human rights advocacy.