CASE STUDIES

Treatment Services – Jon’s Story

When I first came to DHI, I was on a court order, dependent on alcohol, had left my family home and I was having no contact with my children. Despite all that, I had no desire or intention to change my drinking and was so resistant that I even deliberately got myself removed from groups. I was still mandated to attend, so came to sessions with my keyworker and over time some of what she said began to sink in.

At my lowest point, I finally booked into a rehab and when I came out I walked straight into an AA meeting. That was 18 months ago and, far from being reluctant to come to DHI, I’m now coming by choice and helping to run a group for people preparing for detox. For me, DHI has been a parachute on my back; if I feel myself freefalling, I can pull that cord and know I’ve got a somewhere to go.

Family and Carers Services – Jenny’s Story

About ten years ago, my children had both flown the nest and I was enjoying a relaxing retirement. But that all changed when my daughter’s alcohol dependence engulfed her, and she moved back home. Of course, I supported her as much as I could, I cared for her and provided for all her needs. In effect though, I was enabling her. This in turn made my home a battleground where I felt constantly anxious, and I couldn’t sleep for worrying what would happen to her.

After her first appointment with DHI, she brought back a leaflet about DHI’s Families and Carers Service. I still remember the first group I attended. It was such a relief to know I wasn’t alone and there were other families who knew exactly what we were going through. I got counselling, support from others in similar situations and practical advice for how to set boundaries. This not only allowed me to survive this time, but I believe that those boundaries helped my daughter to finally get into recovery

Home Turf Lettings – Simon’s Story

At my lowest point, I felt like the saddest man in the world. My son had been taken from me, I was living an isolated life in a tent in the woods. I was drinking. I was using heroin. I was thinking seriously about taking my own life.

I spent two months in that desperate situation before trying to seek help. I stopped drinking and using heroin and tried to find accommodation but was turned away from everywhere. Luckily, I got in touch with DHI, who found me a place in a supported dry house, giving me a stable roof over my head and the help I needed to stay abstinent.

After a few months, I felt confident enough to move into a self-contained flat managed by Home Turf Lettings, where I still live now. I’ve regained my independence and I’m now working again in construction, but if I ever do need help, I know it’s there.

DHI’s not-for-profit social enterprise, was set up in response to the growing housing crisis; a lack of affordable housing being a key issue for many of its clients.