The Housing Needs of Substance Misusers
Significant numbers of ex-offenders face homelessness. Statistics show a high number of people that do not have settled accommodation amongst those that are sentenced. The hostel system demonstrates a high proportion of ex-offenders amongst those that are resident and those that apply to the hostel system for accommodation.
Much work has been done to address these problems, with the creation of the Rehabilitation and Resettlement of Offenders Strategy, with partnership agencies working together to address these issues.
Cambridgeshire DAAT have worked hard through the Drugs Intervention Programme (DIP) to provide a range of accommodation options through the creation of a Comprehensive Rent Deposit Model which enables clients on the programme to have access to private rented accommodation, with intensive tenancy support.
Through this work it was identified that it was not only the client group that required support.
Housing providers, hostel managers and other organisations working with this client group also require support in relation to drug related incidents that may occur on their premises. There have been several changes to the law and many landlords, housing providers and services have been confused as to their legal duty around such issues.
It was recognised that is was important to produce a document that outlines the clear legal responsibilities, but also offers a sense of confidence amongst those agencies working with the client group, to promote good practice, consistency in striking the right balance between enforcement action and support to substance misusers to enable access treatment and harm minimisation services.
The Cambridge Drugs Protocol is the result of a positive collaboration between the agencies named on the front cover of this document, a combination of statutory and voluntary agencies, to produce this document which is designed to act as a guidance for organisations rather than a directive. Particularly useful, are named contacts of the Police, DAAT and the City Council.
From this partnership working DAAT hopes to continue to attract a broader range of housing providers to accept the client group to improve their re-integration back into society and away from a life of substance misuse and offending.
Working Together: A drugs protocol for Cambridge [529kb]
Accommodation Options for the Substance Misusing Client Group in Cambridgeshire
Cambridgeshire DAAT have produced a directory of accommodation that is currently available within the County. However, it is important to note that with the exception of the Cambridgeshire Drugs Intervention Programme accommodation, none of the accommodation listed is specifically for clients with issues of substance misuse. The criteria for the accommodation is usually single homeless with support needs.
The only option for direct access within the County is Jimmy's Night shelter in Cambridge, although the Ferry Project in Wisbech will accept direct access if they have a bed available at the time. All other providers require the appropriate referral as indicated in the directory. Please note that the information in the directory was correct at the time that the information was collated (November 06) any changes that DAAT are aware of will be amended as soon possible.
Accommodation Options for the Substance Misusing Client Group in Cambridgeshire [421kb]
© CDAT 2009