Government initiates new housing project aimed at supporting people in recovery from substance abuse issues

In a bid to address the housing crisis and support vulnerable individuals, Bristol-based charity ARA, Recovery for All, has launched a new service called the Specialist Housing Support Service. This initiative, funded by the National Lottery until September 2024, focuses on recovery, mental health, and housing for those battling addiction and homelessness.

The service, which is a wrap-around approach, involves collaboration with charities, hospitals, prisons, and the local council. Their collective goal is to find and keep homes for those who are most in need.

According to recent statistics, one in six people in drug and alcohol recovery in the UK faces housing issues. This new service aims to address this issue and help people sustain a property tenancy.

The government has also shown its support for this cause. In February 2023, a £53m cash boost was announced to be distributed among 28 local authorities in England to improve housing support for drug and alcohol recovery.

However, sourcing properties for people battling addiction may present challenges. The city of Bristol, like many others, faces a housing emergency, with affordable homes hard to come by due to the current cost-of-living crisis.

It's worth noting that ARA, Recovery for All, which was formed in 1987, has a proven track record of success. Since its inception, the charity has helped over 40,000 people with alcohol, drug, gambling, and mental health issues. The charity is also estimated to have saved around £50m in costs to the community.

In addition, the charity aims to integrate vulnerable individuals into the local community. This is a crucial aspect of the service, as losing a house could potentially lead to being stuck in the homelessness system.

Recent initiatives in Bristol include the Salvation Army's new monthly support session, Under One Roof, launched at the start of the month. This session aims to help tackle the barriers faced by people who are sleeping rough or at risk of homelessness.

In conclusion, the launch of the Specialist Housing Support Service by ARA, Recovery for All, is a significant step towards addressing the housing crisis and supporting vulnerable individuals in Bristol. The service, which is funded until September 2024, will focus on recovery, mental health, and housing, with the aim of integrating vulnerable people into the local community.

Government initiates new housing project aimed at supporting people in recovery from substance abuse issues