The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: ‘I am delighted to be supporting this landmark new service, providing vital support to some of the most vulnerable Londoners.
‘The window for helping those with addictions can often be incredibly small and ensuring immediate access to appropriate detoxification and treatment can be life-changing.
‘The health issues experienced by people who are homeless are often complex and entrenched, there are no quick fixes.
‘Therefore, it is vital we continue to invest in addiction support and substance misuse therapies to address these life-threatening health inequalities.’
Dr Ian Abbs, chief executive officer of Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, said: ‘We are very proud to be part of this new service at St Thomas’ Hospital, which is a lifeline to people living in incredibly difficult circumstances.
‘Our expert medical and nursing teams will work with mental health colleagues to provide specialist care in one suite.
‘Getting this right will mean we can give this group of patients a chance to live healthier and happier lives.’
Chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Community and Children Services Committee, Ruby Sayed, said: ‘Rough sleeping is the most acute and visible form of homelessness, and an issue that remains a challenge not only in the Square Mile, but right across London and indeed the country.
‘Every single person has the right to feel safe, secure and protected. The new facility at St Thomas’ Hospital will provide a holistic support programme, allowing people to begin a recovery from life on the streets and harmful substance use.
‘In collaboration with our partners, we are proud to support some of the most vulnerable people in our society.’
Eddie Hughes, minister for rough sleeping and housing, said: ‘We know that one of the many issues facing rough sleepers, or those at risk of homelessness, is drug or alcohol misuse and the crippling effect this can have on people’s lives.
‘The detox unit at St Thomas’ Hospital will offer transformative care to rough sleepers in London suffering from addiction, to ensure some of London’s most vulnerable people get the help they need.
‘This is one of many projects supported by the government’s £750m investment this year to help end rough sleeping, which includes £52m specifically allocated to substance misuse support services.’
Photo Credit – Ev
