Housing Support
The Housing Support Scheme, provided by ourselves, is free of charge for council or private tenants over the age of 16. The scheme offers help for you to live independently in a stable and secure environment.
The team is made up of Dean Morris, Rachael Howard and Caron Nelson. A Senior Support Officer Harriet Restall and Manager Veruta Barlow who are all based in Housing Services at the Town Hall. The scheme has been working for tenants in Darlington for over 10 years and it can support up to 40 tenants at any one time.
Support is offered to any vulnerable adult with a low to medium need and covers a variety of issues ranging from claiming the correct benefits and budgeting advice, to helping their clients get out and about and form a social network. We will also carry out pre-tenancy work to help people who are homeless get into appropriate accommodation.
The length of stay on the scheme will vary according to the your individual circumstances. There is a maximum time of 2 years under Supporting People Rules.
Who are classed as vulnerable adults?
Those at risk of losing their homes
Some of the following issues may have an impact on this:
- Homeless families and singles
- Mental health problems
- Learning disabilities
- Substance misuse
- Those who may be at risk of eviction/court
- Budgeting issues
- Older people
- Any other issues that may affect your tenancy
The team also works closely with a number of agencies that can help address issues clients may have. These include; alcohol and drug support groups, debt management agencies, mental health groups, domestic abuse support networks and voluntary groups which offer work experience and many more.
The team will undertake an assessment and once approved through the KPA, will visit the client weekly in their own home at a time convenient to them. This support can last from 6 months to up to 2 years and although there can be a waiting list, spaces become frequently available. We will also carry out reviews of progress and consultations with our clients to ensure we are continually improving the service.
No matter what your circumstances or background, Housing Support will be able to help you or your client get back on track.
How can we help?
We can help you with:
- Budgeting
- Claiming correct benefits
- Keeping your tenancy in good order
- Dealing with neighbour disputes
- Liaising with other agencies you need
- Taking up social/educational and training opportunities
- Develop daily living skills
- cope with everyday problems
- Empower you to be as independent as possible in your home
We can signpost to / assist you with :
Organisations who can help with nursing duties, agencies who can provide formal counselling, getting help with personal hygiene, bathing and anything else you may need.
You also might find the Welfare Rights page useful.
If you feel you or anyone else you know has support needs and would benefit from additional support please complete our referral form [word document]. If you would like additional information on the service please email us at housing.support@darlington.gov.uk.
Please see our Annual Report [pdf document] for further information and progress of the scheme over the past year.