CASS Pilots Alcohol Misuse Floating Support Scheme in North Cumbria

CASS has been asked to deliver a two year pilot scheme in the North of the county for people with alcohol dependency, who have accommodation problems and are at risk of losing their accommodation – the scheme began in July 2009.
 
The pilot was developed through consultation with Supporting People who are funding the scheme and various partner organisations including Cumbria Adult Social Care and Cumbria NHS. The needs of this group are seen as particularly high as if accommodation is lost and the result is homelessness, health problems would be exacerbated and with an increased likelihood of hospital admissions. Specialist Training has been given to all workers involved in the scheme by the Drug and Alcohol Recovery Team (DART).
 
The aim is to help people with alcohol problems to reduce the harm associated with alcohol misuse and live independently within their communities. The scheme can support up to 10 people at any time. Similar to CASS’ other floating support scheme, we work with clients who are 16 years old and over, on any housing related issues to help them maintain their tenancies. Support can be for up to two years, and can include short term support with people discharged from hospital after a “detox” and supporting people through home “detox” treatments.
 
Over the next two years CASS expects to gather evidence to show the need for this type of specialist support and of its effectiveness
 
A multi-disciplinary referral and review panel meets monthly - referrals can be made through any of the partner agencies or direct to CASS on 01228 597521.
 
CASS has been chosen to provide the scheme in the North of the County.  Impact Housing and Stonham Housing Association provide similar services in the West and South of Cumbria respectively.