Surveying homelessness in Italy: framework and in-depth questionnaire of the new Istat national survey
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71014/sieds.v80i2.513Abstract
Homelessness is an extreme form of social exclusion and a dynamic process difficult to measure. These are some of the methodological challenges addressed within the recent Istat national project on homelessness (2024-2026). In order to get information on the ‘visible’ homeless population at a certain time in a specific area, a Point in Time count of sheltered and unsheltered people experiencing homelessness is going to be conducted in 14 Italian Centers of the Metropolitan areas. In addition, a sample CAWI survey is planned shortly following the count on the same target population to collect more information on the profiles and condition of homeless people. Non-professional interviewers specifically trained, many of them volunteering on services for the homeless together with other citizens, will be in charge of data collection.
The aim of this paper is to discuss the main conceptual and operational issues related to the development of the in-depth questionnaire considering various aspects. Among them the definition and eligibility of the target population, balancing information on the main profiles and investigating reasons and dynamics of homelessness, use of services, denied rights and crucial needs.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Eugenia De Rosa, Francesca Scambia
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