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During the study's first stage, 284 homeless people from crisis and long‐term accommodation sites were surveyed using stratified, systematic sampling. The second stage involved a survey of a convenience sample of 100 homeless people from squats and the streets. Participants completed a questionnaire, Mantoux testing was performed and blood taken for gamma‐interferon assay, liver and renal function tests. The group's health status was poor, with 72% experiencing medical conditions in the preceding two years and 77% symptoms in the month prior to interview. Bronchitis, asthma and gastroenteritis were the most commonly reported conditions; productive and persistent coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing the commonest symptoms. Twenty‐one per cent had Mantoux reactions 15 mm or greater, 28% a raised GGT and 19% a raised ALT. Seventy‐seven per cent smoked, 74% were current drinkers …