Please join us for this seminar, with guest speakers Dr Rachael Dobson and Jhoana Serna, followed by lunch afterwards. This is a hybrid event. Please RSVP your attendance here.

Vulnerability is often a byword for homelessness, as is the related term of 'complex need'. However, the definition of these terms varies wildly depending on the context, leaving those who make claims for assistance in a precarious position. This seminar explores the contradictory, competing definitions of 'vulnerability' and 'duty of care' that circulate, and it offers a frontline perspective on the emotional challenges that ensue.

Speakers:

Dr Rachael Dobson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Law at Birkbeck College, University of London. Her research explores institutional responses to welfare users at the level of the local-state as a way to theorise policy processes and state formations. This approach draws on poststructural, psychosocial, critical feminist and critical race informed debates about critical and cultural approaches to governance, and the role of social welfare practitioners in the ‘making-of’ policy, legislation and institutions. Rachael’s background is in homelessness practice and she continues to work with statutory and advocacy organisations delivering services to vulnerable adults, to improve outcomes through better policy knowledge and implementation.

Rachael will be presenting on her recently published paper in Housing Studies.

Jhoana Serna is a freelance facilitator, trainer, reflective practitioner & coach. She has worked extensively in English homelessness services. Over the last 15 years, she has worked as a support worker, residential accommodation manager and latterly as a strengths-based coach and trainer. Most recently, she has worked as Head of Coaching for the Mayday Trust.