People experiencing mental health difficulties often face significant barriers when accessing housing, including stigma, discrimination, inadequate support, complex application processes, and under-resourced services. Ensuring that people with mental health difficulties have access to secure housing and the support needed to live independently is recognised as a vital component of recovery in both Irish and international policy and research.

This exhibition forms part of a longitudinal research study exploring the lived experiences of individuals housed under the START programme (Support for Tenancy and Recovery Targets). The START programme is a collaboration between the South East HSE Mental Health Service, the five Local Authorities in the South East, and two Approved Housing Bodies: The Good Shepherd Centre and Focus Ireland. The START model aims to provide and sustain secure tenancies with wraparound support for people experiencing mental health difficulties who have identified housing needs.

The photographs and accompanying narratives were created by participants using a visual participatory community needs assessment tool. Through photography and storytelling, they reflect on their experiences of recovery, creating and sustaining a home, and participating in their community.