There are a shortage of services willing to house individuals who are drinking at harmful or hazardous levels, particularly when they’re unready or unwilling to reduce their level of alcohol use. Individuals with complex dependencies and deep-rooted, unresolved trauma may not be ready to reduce or stop drinking in order to secure accommodation.
To meet the needs of this group, the homelessness sector needs more accommodation services who are willing to house people whilst they are still drinking and offer sustained, person-centred support to help the individual move through the ‘spectrum of support’. This guide offers information and advice to services on how to engage and support individuals who are drinking at harmful levels
The needs of people experiencing homelessness are best met through a diverse range of provision. An effective whole system approach allows professionals working in the homelessness sector to match support according to individual circumstances, needs, and preferences.
Evidence suggests the biggest gap in provision is the lack of services willing and able to work effectively with people with more complex needs.
Explore the topic in more detail
Overcoming barriers
Design and person-centred support
Training: Supporting change resistant and dependent drinkers
This course is designed to equip your team with the skills and knowledge to more effectively support individuals with alcohol-related issues, including those resistant to change. By course end your team will confidently identify, assess, and devise intervention strategies.
