Release Date:  20-May-2008

A shake-up in the provision of housing support services for people on drug and alcohol treatment programmes is being recommended under proposals going to the city council’s Cabinet on 29 May.

The report recommends awarding contracts for housing support services that provide for those with drug and alcohol-related problems. It will improve efficiency and allow a significant increase in the number of people supported whilst reducing hourly costs.

 The proposal is in line with the local Supporting People Strategy, which aims to meet Local Area Agreement targets (LAAs are 'contracts' between Councils and the Govermment on meeting targets across a range of services) for supported accommodation and floating support for people engaged in structured treatment programmes.

 Before the introduction of the Supporting People programme, drug and alcohol services in Bristol were described by Nick Hooper, Head of Strategic Housing for Bristol City Council, as having developed in a ‘somewhat haphazard’ manner. Nick said: “It was agreed that the scope of change required was too great to be met through negotiation with current providers, and that a full tendering process would also result in better value for money.”

 The plan has already been endorsed by the Safer Bristol Partnership. The tendering process will improve positive outcomes for individuals, reduce the number of service providers from twelve to eight whilst bringing new ones in, and increasing the availability of housing for people just starting treatment or for those who have lapsed. The shake-up will also increase the specialist support and accommodation for women, as well as improving co-ordination with drug treatment services.

 Councillor Judith Price, Cabinet Member for Homes & Streetscene, says: “We are committed to tackling the problem of drugs and alcohol to help create better neighbourhoods. To do this, we need to make Bristol’s drug and alcohol support as effective and efficient as possible. This tendering process has allowed us to tailor provision to each individual, while making the best use of support hours and accommodation. We already have the endorsement of those we have consulted with, and with the Cabinet's approval will be able to provide an improved service and make a real difference."

 If the council’s Cabinet approves the proposals, two-year contracts totalling almost £1.8 million per year will be issued in November.

Author:  Mark Nicholson

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