Step down

Some services offer step down accommodation following on from residential treatment. They are designed to meet the needs of service users who have been discharged from a residential programme  and are in early recovery from alcohol and / or substance abuse. They give the service user the opportunity to re-engage in their recovery with the help of professionals if they have slipped or are struggling with their recovery. Often these services are situated away from the service user’s area of residence and drug-using networks.

Some services offer Step Down programmes targeted at those who are vulnerable to homelessness on completion of a rehabilitation programme. Participants live independently in a supported environment and can receive support to find more suitable long-term accommodation. For some programmes, applicants must be registered as homeless with their local council.