Case studies

We are grateful to our clients for allowing us to share their experiences with you. We respect the right of our clients to a confidential service. Names and other personal information have been changed.

Ben's story

Ben, age 35, was living in temporary hostel accommodation when he was referred to the ASB Team. He had a Criminal Anti-social Behaviour Order (CrASBO) for begging, which he had twice breached prior to his referral. Ben has a long-term diagnosis of schizophrenia, and a history of street drinking and regularly using crack and heroin.

We worked with Ben to enable him to maintain his hostel place while applications were made to supported housing projects. Links were made with mental health services to ensure that he received regular medication, which led to a period of more stable mental health. He was assessed as motivated to begin addressing his addiction issues.

Six months after his referral to our Team, Ben was living in supported housing. He had reduced his methadone script and achieved a significant reduction in crack use. He had completed a computer course and was considering volunteering options.

Ellen's story

Addicted to heroin and crack, Ellen, aged 24, had been sex working on a daily basis for many years. She had received numerous custodial sentences over the years for crimes committed to fund her drug habit and had been identified for an Acceptable Behaviour Contract (ABC).

Ellen was sleeping rough when we began to engage with her. She was initially not prepared to exit sex work but was willing to address her drug use.

In the year since her referral, Ellen began attending college and undertook voluntary work. Since then, she has undertaken a drug rehabilitation programme and is beginning to address the issues that led her into sex work.

Meg's story

Meg, aged 53, has spent more than 20 years of her life in psychiatric hospitals. For the last eight years, she has been living in the community with no support and she was drinking heavily. At the point we intervened, she had received an Acceptable Behaviour Contract (ABC) for harassment, threats and public drinking.

We worked with Meg for one year. During that time we assisted her to move into appropriate housing, and supported her to access a GP and an alcohol support service. We spent considerable time helping Meg to develop her self-management skills. We also supported her to access voluntary work opportunities.

Meg's ability to cope with problems and manage her emotions has greatly improved. There have been no further incidents of antisocial behaviour and the ABC has ended.