Auckland City Mission
Evaluation of the HomeGround Apartments Integrated Services Model.
An innovative project, led by the University of Auckland’s Centre for Research and Evaluation Pūtahi Rangahau Ngātahi in partnership with Te Tāpui Atawhai, the Auckland City Mission, aims to inform future investment decisions, enhance the service model, and offer direction for the broader national housing system in Aotearoa New Zealand. Professor Christa Fouché is Project Co-Lead for a Value for Investment evaluation of the HomeGround initiative, designed for people with long histories of homelessness and complex needs.
The evaluation focuses on understanding how the HomeGround integrative model creates value for different stakeholder groups and how the value created by HomeGround compares to traditional housing support models. It will also explore factors impacting the success of the model, including the six principles of the Supporting Housing model:
- Thoughtful design
- Permanence and affordability
- Tenancy mix
- Safety and support services
- Social inclusion
- Commitment to Te Ao Maori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi
In employing a Value for Investment (VfI) framework, the study design integrates economic and evaluative thinking to assess the HomeGround model's impact. This approach will involve a collaborative design process with key stakeholders, ensuring the evaluation meets diverse information needs, maintains a commitment to tikanga Māori and Te Ao Māori perspectives, and supports evidence-informed practice.
Research team
Professor Christa Fouché, Director, Centre for Community Research and Evaluation, University of Auckland
Dr Kelsey Deane, Assessment & Evaluation Research Centre, University of Melbourne
Nan Wehipeihana (Ngāti Tukorehe, Ngāti Porou and Te Whānau-ā-Apanui), Independent Consultant, Weaving Insights
Dr Laura Chubb, Associate Director, Centre for Community Research and Evaluation, University of Auckland
Dr John Fenaughty, Counselling, Human Services and Social Work, University of Auckland
Dr Adrian Field, Independent Consultant, Dovetail Consulting
Dr Aaron Schiff, Independent Consultant, Schiff Consulting
Marcella-Jane Williams (Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Kahungunu), doctoral student, University of Auckland