Denmark’s Housing First approach to addressing homelessness stands out, as key elements of Housing First have been incorporated into law since October 2023, and other key elements are supported by significant national funds. This has come about based on two clear political targets:

• To decrease the number of citizens in homelessness
• To end long-term homelessness.

These goals are the basis of the political decision to reorganize the efforts against homelessness and base the efforts on Housing First.

In promoting the core element in Housing First of providing a permanent home for citizens who are otherwise in homelessness, legislation has been passed creating financial incentives to help citizens into permanent housing.

Another key element in Housing First are the evidence-based support interventions (CTI, ICM or ACT). Danish legislation now ensures partial refunds for municipalities providing evidence-based interventions for citizens that move from a temporary shelter to a permanent home.

Finding affordable homes can be a challenge, mainly in the larger cities. Therefore, 1bn DKK have been allocated, ensuring more affordable homes. Part of this sum is allocated for subsidizing the rent in buildings where local authorities have the right to assign housing.

Many other activities to supporting a nationwide implementation of Housing First are nationally funded for the years 2022-2025, amongst which is a national partnership entrusted with the task of monitoring the progress of implementing Housing First across the country. The national partnership must consecutively discuss possibilities and barriers towards implementing Housing First in Denmark and annually report to the national authorities on the matter.