People sleeping rough or at risk of homelessness in Surrey can now access drug and alcohol support more easily, thanks to a new service launched by our Trust at the beginning of October.
Our new Rough Sleeping Service is delivered through i-access, our specialist drug and alcohol service, which we run in partnership with Via.
The service provides dedicated drug and alcohol support directly in the community, making it easier for people experiencing homelessness to get the help they need.
We offer flexible, timely and confidential support tailored to each person's circumstances. Importantly, people do not need to be ready to stop using drugs or alcohol to access support. They can receive help to reduce their drug or alcohol use, work towards recovery or simply explore the treatment options available to them.
Katie Matthews, our Associate Director of Substance Misuse Services, said:
"We want to make it as easy as possible for people who are rough sleeping or at risk of homelessness to get the support they need.
"We recognise that everyone's circumstances are different. Our approach is about meeting people where they are, building trust and offering flexible support without judgement.
"Whether someone wants to reduce their drug or alcohol use, stop altogether, or simply talk through their options, we are here to help."
Dr Jack Bedeman, Director of Public Health for Surrey County Council, said:
"People sleeping rough experience some of the poorest health outcomes in our communities, including disproportionately high levels of drug and alcohol dependence. That is why Rough Sleeping Drug and Alcohol Treatment services are such an important part of our local response.
"The Government's winter rough sleeping programme rightly recognises the need for coordinated action. Alongside measures to support people into safe accommodation, access to high-quality treatment and recovery support can be life-changing, reducing harm, preventing avoidable deaths and helping people achieve lasting recovery.
"Our commitment is to work with housing, NHS and voluntary sector partners to ensure that people sleeping rough receive compassionate, person-centred support that addresses both immediate needs and the underlying causes of homelessness."
Bringing support directly into the community
Rather than expecting people to attend appointments, our colleagues will work alongside local partners and organisations to reach people where they are, offering support in places where they feel more comfortable.
Through the service, we offer one-to-one support, including:
- Drug and alcohol treatment, including opioid substitute treatment prescribing where clinically appropriate
- Recovery support and advice
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Needle exchange services
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Hepatitis B vaccinations and Hepatitis C testing
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Support from Citizens Advice colleagues
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Help towards detox and longer-term recovery, where appropriate
The launch reflects our ongoing commitment to making drug and alcohol treatment more accessible, particularly for people experiencing homelessness who may face barriers when accessing traditional services.
How to access support
People can refer themselves to our Rough Sleeping Service by:
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Calling 0300 222 5932, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
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Completing the self-referral form on the i-access website
Professionals can also make a referral, with the person's consent, by visiting the i-access website and selecting 'Rough Sleeping Service' on the professional referral form.