UNSHELTERED INTERVIEW GUIDE

LET'S CHANGE THE NARRATIVE

My name is John and I live on the streets of Scotland. Please be respectful and understanding when asking questions of a homeless person like me. I may not be comfortable talking about my situation, or I may have had bad experiences with people in the past. If I don't want to answer a question, please don't pressure me. And if you want to take my picture, please ask first. For the benefit of safety, always bring someone along with you when you're seeking to interview people on the streets like me. Your partner can also engage and take notes or (with permission) record the interview. Below are some interview tips, followed by a list of possible questions. What's most important to me is that you make eye contact with me and simply listen. And of course, food and/or a donation would really be appreciated.

INTERVIEW STORY APPLICATION

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INTERVIEW TIPSclick for more guidance

After getting their consent, turn on your recording device and get their name, age, and location.
Be friendly and respectful. Introduce yourself and ask for permission to take their picture.
Be mindful of your body language. Make eye contact and avoid crossing your arms.
Ask open-ended questions. This will encourage them to talk about their experiences in their own words.
Be a good listener. Pay attention to what they're saying and ask follow-up questions.
Don't be afraid to offer help. If they say they need something, ask them what you can do.
Always give them food and/or a donation.

POSSIBLE INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

What's your name? (introduce yourself as well)
How long have you been homeless?
How did you become homeless?
What was your childhood like?
How are you treated by the public?
Do you have any family or friends who can help you?
Are you being helped by any social service agencies?
Have you made any effort to get off the streets?
Where do you find shelter at night or during inclement weather?
Where do you find food & water?
What's your biggest fear?
How do you face each day?
How do you spend your day?
Do you feel safe?
What have you learned from your time on the streets?
What three words would you use to describe being homeless?
What's the hardest thing about being homeless?
What's the best thing that happened to you this week?
What do you need most right now?
What does the word HOME mean to you?
What is your hope for the future?

ALTERNATIVE INTERVIEW APPROACH

just give a group of people who are so often silenced a chance to have their say.

Listening is the most important thing you can do to help a homeless person. Don't judge them, don't assume anything about their situation, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Start by just asking them if they would like to tell you their story. Listen to what they say if they do. Let them decide what questions should be answered, what answers are important. Let them be heard. Share parts of your story as well. Have a natural conversation and ask questions from the above list as they become relevant and important to complete their story. Close by thanking them (use their name) and give them words of encouragement.

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