New service benefits East Sussex residents
People battling against drug and alcohol misuse are being given extra housing support to help them live independently and prevent homelessness.
Having a home - and managing all the responsibilities that come with it - is something that many of us take for granted. Yet, for someone with a drug or alcohol problem, the need to manage monthly bills or liaise with a landlord could present a big challenge. This is why housing-related support services are so important to substance misusers.
East Sussex Safer Communities Partnership awarded Carr-Gomm the contract to run the new housing support service. Speaking on behalf of the Partnership, Councillor Bob Tidy, Lead Member for Community Safety at the County Council, said: “People with addictions face many challenges in life including lack of affordable housing, criminal activity, family breakdowns, unemployment and social isolation.
“This new housing-related support service offers support from 3 months up to 2 years. It is available to people aged between 18 and 64 years, who have taken the first steps to tackle their addiction by contacting an East Sussex substance misuse service. It’s another example of partners working together to help improve community safety right across the County”.
Gary Lashko, Chief Executive, Carr-Gomm said: “Carr-Gomm has a long history of providing housing, care and support to disadvantaged people in East Sussex. The new floating support service complements our existing services in the area, and we are delighted to be extending our partnership with Sussex County Council and Sussex Probation.
“Project staff will support local people at risk of homelessness to manage and maintain their tenancy, as well as helping those who are homeless find more permanent housing. Staff will provide a flexible package of support tailored to each individuals circumstances, giving them control over their lives.
He adds: “We know that, with the right support, people who have experienced crises or difficulties can overcome these barriers, live independently and enjoy the same life opportunities that many of us take for granted.”
The service is designed to help prevent homelessness, increase people’s independence and confidence, and build links with their community to help them re-settle, the service is important for reducing substance misuse in East Sussex.
A service user said: “I used to think that if I made a mistake it was the end of the world, but with the support I receive, I now realise that ups and downs are okay, as long as I’m moving in the right direction. I feel more positive about myself than ever before”.
The initiative is funded by the ‘Supporting People Programme’, a government grant which helps vulnerable people to live at home, by offering them specialist support. National housing charity, Carr-Gomm and the East Sussex Safer Communities Partnership have developed and implemented the service.
