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An alternative to group homes
Summary
Supported lodgings offer a viable alternative to group homes for individuals with schizophrenia. This housing model, financed by County Councils, facilitates patient discharge and requires robust after-care support.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Social Work
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Group homes are a traditional model for patient care.
- Supported lodgings present an alternative housing solution.
- Schizophrenia patients are identified as suitable candidates for supported lodgings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a supported lodgings scheme as an alternative to traditional group homes.
- To highlight the suitability of schizophrenic patients for this scheme.
- To emphasize the role of statutory financing and after-care services.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of a supported lodgings scheme.
- Discharge of various patient groups including short-stay, new non-demented long-stay, and old long-stay patients.
- Provision of after-care facilities such as day centers and community psychiatric nurse visits.
Main Results:
- Successful discharge of short-stay, new non-demented long-stay, and old long-stay patients through the supported lodgings scheme.
- High engagement with after-care services: nearly half of patients attended a day center.
- Significant community support: over a third received regular visits from psychiatric nurses and social workers.
Conclusions:
- Supported lodgings are an effective alternative to group homes for psychiatric patients, particularly those with schizophrenia.
- Statutory financial support from County Councils is crucial for the scheme's viability.
- Comprehensive after-care, including day center attendance and community nurse visits, is vital for successful integration and ongoing support.