Introduction to the Service

The Haven is a registered care home where people with chronic alcohol problems may live, long term, with dignity and respect. We specialise in providing accommodation for those, who in addition to their alcohol problems, are cognitive impaired and dually diagnosed as suffering from Korsakoff’s syndrome, Werneke’s psychosis or other mental health problems.

It is recognised that, for most, rehabilitation is not a realistic goal and residents are free to consume alcohol in a comfortable communal lounge; their rooms or in the garden.

Who can live at the Haven?

The Haven provides supportive environment for up to 20 residents usually over the age of 40, who are actively drinking.

We welcome men and women with an area reserved for women only. A number of rooms are set-aside for people with impaired mobility, however the Haven cannot cater for wheelchair users.

Facilities offered at the Haven

The Haven is a purpose built care home and is furnished to a very high standard with facilities ranging from a laundry to a landscaped garden. Each bedroom has a fully furnished bedroom with a key.

There are two lounges each with a television and video, one in which residents may consume alcohol.

An emphasis on individuals

Central to the practice of The Haven is that all residents are recognised for their individual needs, capacities and interests.

Through personal care plans and with the support of keyworkers, residents are encouraged to renew and develop their interests, community links and where appropriate, personal care.

Harm Reduction at

The Haven

A typical, although not exclusive, profile for residents will include experience of homelessness and history of involvement with the criminal justice system and emergency services.

Poor diet, untreated illnesses and injuries, and a pattern of alcohol binge and abstinence are also common.

Such factors constitute substantial harm to an individual’s mental and physical well-being.

Additionally, these factors may be compounded by the lack of attention to personal safety and hygiene, low self-esteem, and periods of isolation, particularly for those with mental health issues.

The Haven challenges this through providing a stable environment and sympathetic support to make real health and personal gains.

Through care plans and a risk assessment, keyworkers aim to enable residents to improve their overall quality of life, for instance through developing their family and community links, or through improved diet and personal care.