'˜Support hub' success in its inaaugural year

The initiative sees Mid and East Antrim Council, Department of Justice, PSNI, NIFRS and other statutory agencies, working together to help vulnerable individuals get the right support.

The framework involves representatives from various agencies meeting regularly to discuss individuals who may require support and working out how those agencies work together to provide help. The idea has helped people through referrals to the right support services or the passing on of information to direct them to ways to get help.

PSNI Supt Davy Beck said: “Each agency in the hub identifies vulnerable people and, with their consent, shares what relevant information they have with the other partners. This helps create a full picture of their particular circumstances. One example is of a young man living alone in a housing executive flat, suffering from mental health issues, alcohol and drug misuse. He had a close family circle, but younger men were taking advantage of him by using his property as a place to deal drugs. The Support Hub was able to help by securing him an appointment with health professionals, substance support services, as well as securing appropriate accommodation. He is now thriving as part of a volunteer group. This shows Support Hubs help deliver the right support at the right time.”

More at www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/SupportHubs