How can we develop a sustainable safety and security model for CityHousing Hamilton that is based on a social work/security combination?
Project Description:
CityHousing Hamilton provides affordable housing to over 13,000 people in over 7,000 units of social housing. We have seen the acuity in vulnerable tenants increase significantly in the past 5 years, including mental health, addictions and criminal activity. Safety and security has become more challenging and at our most vulnerable buildings, we have resorted to 24/7 concierge service with Level 1 guards. This means the guards can arrest people using force. They do not carry guns.
The funding for security comes straight from Operations, which means that dollars that are planned for fixing and maintaining properties are being spent on security. This is neither sustainable nor does it address the root cause of the safety and security issue.
Other housing providers have developed community safety positions that are social work based, but also have security authority.
Goals:
CHH would like to investigate these models in order to determine:
The best model for our local situation
Costs and Funding Research – exploration of costs and funding models
ROI – what is the return on investment in terms of reducing fire, police and paramedic calls; increase in quality of life and feelings of safety and security for tenants?
Challenge Summary:
What is a sustainable safety and security model for CityHousing Hamilton that is based on a social work/security combination?
City Staff: Kate Mannen, Manager Partnership Development and Support Services, CityHousing Hamilton
Faculty & Course: Karen Balcom, McMaster University, Social Entrepreneurship Capstone - IBH 4AB6
