Swale Housing First supports people who have experienced homelessness and may also have a history of drug or alcohol use, as well as physical or mental ill health. Customers live independently in their own properties and receive floating support rather than living in shared or supported accommodation.
Homes are provided by Optivo, the local social housing provider, and customers hold their own tenancy agreements. The service is delivered in partnership with Swale Borough Council through the Rough Sleepers Initiative, Optivo, and Riverside, who employ the specialist support workers.
Customers are supported on a weekly basis to help them manage their tenancy and work towards improving their quality of life. Each person has a named support worker but can also work with other team members depending on their needs and strengths.
Support focuses on:
- Building confidence and communication skills
- Increasing independence in daily living
- Managing money and household bills
- Accessing healthcare and improving overall wellbeing
- Engaging with local communities and reducing isolation
There are regular formal reviews and support planning meetings where customers can set personal goals and agree clear steps to achieve them. Staff can also support customers to book and attend appointments when needed.
Referrals into the service are currently made through local homeless charity stakeholders.
Key outcomes for customers
- Improved health and wellbeing
- Greater independence
- Increased self‑esteem and confidence
- A stronger sense of belonging in the local community
- Empowerment to take control of their own lives