Understand
New NHS service launches in Surrey to support rough sleepers with addiction
Overview
A new NHS service and app has launched in Surrey to provide dedicated drug and alcohol addiction support for people who are rough sleeping or at risk of homelessness. Created by i-access and run by the Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust in partnership with the charity Via, the Rough Sleeping Service meets people in the community to offer flexible, non-judgemental support, including one-to-one treatment, health testing, and vaccinations.
Key points
- A new NHS app and service called the Rough Sleeping Service has launched in Surrey for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
- The service is created by i-access, run by Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust alongside the charity Via.
- Staff meet individuals directly in the community to provide drug and alcohol addiction support without requiring formal appointment attendance.
- Treatment options include opioid substitute treatment, recovery support, needle exchanges, hepatitis B vaccinations, and hepatitis C testing.
- Individuals can self-refer or be referred by professionals with their consent.