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See The Full Picture

See The Full Picture

See The Full Picture

Friday, February 14, 2020

At the Frontline Network, we are aware that people experiencing homelessness can often experience multiple disadvantages.

In our most recent Frontline Worker survey, two thirds of frontline workers told us they experienced problems when trying to access specialist mental health support services for the people they support. Long waiting lists and high thresholds for support were stated as the main barriers in our open questions. Support for those experiencing multiple and complex needs was also frequently cited as inadequate, especially for those with a dual diagnosis of substance misuse and mental health issues.

“Clients with mental health and drug and or alcohol issues are being refused access to mental health services because of their use of drugs/alcohol. The refusal by mental [health] services to accept it is poor mental health that [is] causing the person to self-medicate.” (Frontline Worker, 2018)

“Mental health services will not work with people whilst using substances.” (Frontline Worker, 2018)

Fulfilling Lives have been running the #seethefullpicture campaign. This aims to highlight the significant barriers confronting people facing addictions, when trying to access specialist mental health support services. Fulfilling Lives want to ensure that anyone facing addiction can access mental health support when they need it. They will be asking key decision makers to ensure that support services are set up to treat mental ill health and addictions together.

To help highlight how this can be done, Fulfilling Lives Blackpool are holding a System Change, 2 years on event. This event will highlight how services in Blackpool have changed their systems and processes for people experiencing multiple disadvantage. Speakers will also outline the outcomes and benefits of these changes.

System Change, 2 years on is taking place on the February 25th at the Winter Gardens, Renaissance Room. It would be great if you could attend. If possible, we would also ask if you are able to bring a senior colleague with you, so that they can hear first-hand about the difference that can be made. Spaces are limited to 60 people, so please book as soon as possible! You can do so by emailing Dee Laverty on dee.laverty@addaction.org.uk

If you are unable to make the event but still want to get involved in #seethefullpicture, you can sign the petition which is live until February 16th. You can also help spread the message on twitter via #seethefullpicture.

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