Experiences and challenges of a street team in Portugal with vulnerable populations: phenomenological study

Abstract

Objective: To understand the experiences and challenges faced by professionals working on a street team in Portugal in caring for the vulnerable population from the phenomenological perspective of Alfred Schutz. Method: Qualitative approach in the light of the theoretical framework of phenomenological Sociology, developed in a street team in the central region of Portugal from phenomenological interviews with five professionals in the months of June and July 2021. The interpretation of the results was analyzed through theoretical conceptions of Alfred Schutz’s phenomenological sociology and related literature. Results: Three categories emerged: Conflicts experienced by the street team; Frustration in the daily care provided by the street team; and, Limits in the social relationship with the vulnerable population. Conclusion: The street team in Portugal faces challenges in caring for the vulnerable population served,requiring team skills for conflict mediation combined with an understanding of the influences of relationships, in social action.