The situation of homeless individuals in earthquakes and policy recommendations: A phenomenological study

Abstract This study aims to examine in depth the situation of homeless individuals in earthquakes from the perspective of disaster experts and to present social policy recommendations within this scope. The study was planned qualitatively and phenomenology design was preferred. The study data were obtained from interviews with 10 people. In the study, four themes were formed as ‘Vulnerability and Access to Basic Needs’, ‘Information and Safety’, ‘Physical and Psychological Effects’ and ‘Empowerment and Community Integration’. In the study, it was evaluated that homeless individuals have difficulty in reaching basic needs, are socially isolated, and face more health problems than other individuals. In addition, it has been evaluated that these individuals are not adequately included in disaster plans, cannot access sufficient information, have difficulty accessing information and support services, and may experience more security problems than other individuals. As a result, in order to carry out an effective disaster management process in earthquakes, it is important to develop policies that will include homeless individuals in disaster plans. It is recommended that the special needs of these individuals be determined, support services that will prevent social exclusion be provided, programs that support their social integration be prepared and information campaigns be organized.