We were angry and decided to do something about it. Eventually we secured funding from Manchester Health Authority and helped to launch a health project for homeless people in Manchester, which included a part-time branch surgery of a local GP, and advice on accessing health services. In its first year, the project led to 15 people receiving emergency, life-saving treatment. In Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds, we have been working hard to develop links with local health services so that we can be sure that our vendors are able to access treatment. We also place a strong emphasis on mental health, particularly in projects such as the Men's Health Group which explores issues around young men and depression.
Addiction is probably the biggest challenge that our vendors face.
As part of Big Futures, we assess vendors' drug and alcohol use. We encourage vendors to use local drugs and alcohol services, making referrals if necessary, and we work together with the local drugs team. We challenge our vendors to look at their drug use and realise that they can do something better with their lives. Due to the lack of NHS provision, we have privately bought a number of bed spaces at Phoenix House drugs detox facility in Liverpool. Vendors who are ready to try drugs detox can access this treatment option, and move on into rehab placements and permanent tenancies on discharge, through our Premier Housing Service.