Thames Reach manages a range of supported accommodation projects across the capital. These self-contained flats and shared houses, some with on-site staff support, house and help people with a variety of needs, including poor mental or physical health and drug and alcohol problems.
Many tenants of our supported housing schemes have experienced sleeping rough on the street or have moved in from one of our hostels. Some may have suffered chaotic housing problems, such as squatting or sleeping on friends’ floors before running out of options.
Others may have come from hospitals, having suffered physical or mental health problems while in their previous accommodation. For many, life on the streets or in an institution might be their only other option.
Some of our schemes are for people whose high support needs mean that they are unable to live independently. In other projects people can stay for up to two years, while they acquire the emotional and practical skills needed to move on into more mainstream housing.
Two of our schemes are drug and alcohol-free houses for people who need somewhere to stay after leaving a drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre. Another house is aimed at hostel residents who are reducing their drug use to prepare for treatment.
The support given to tenants depends on their needs. It includes:
access to treatment services for alcohol, drug or health problems
help with getting benefits
developing independent living skills, such as how to cope in a crisis
encouragement to reconnect with family and friends, or develop new social networks
assistance in taking up education, training and employment opportunities
These schemes provide a way for vulnerable people to be included in the community, by supplying appropriate housing that also addresses their health needs. Supported housing helps to prevent homelessness and mental health breakdowns, and provides a safe and stable environment for people who have often had chaotic lives.
For more information on specific supported housing projects, see our directory of services.
