20 Simon Communities of Ireland In part, this could be addressed through greater report gaps and blocks in specialist and joint working and by a shared ownership of the mainstream service provision, so that this needs of individual service users by multiple information could be addressed systematically by agencies. One respondent highlighted the use of the Dublin Regional Homelessness Executive joint working plans for service users between and brought to the attention of the senior staff in agencies in Dublin. This approach provides a relevant agencies (Homeless Agency Partnership practical example of a way in which joint 2009). It would be useful to see how this responsibility for assisting service users to meet process works in practice, and the potential or their needs can be taken. Respondents also value of replicating a similar style of handling noted developments in relation to building links ‘blocks and gaps’ elsewhere. Nevertheless, one with health, either in relation to multi-disciplinary respondent noted that there was a lack of clarity teams, or as part of shared protocols with about existing routes that people could use to primary care teams. raise concerns and issues about access to support options, although it was also felt that the In addition to the use of protocols, the need for potential of current forums as a means of voicing mechanisms and processes for addressing concerns was not being fully exploited. A further difficulties in joint working is well recognised. For question was raised over the extent to which the example, the Pathway to Home report (2009) impacts of blocks and gaps are systematically noted the all Quarterly Reports from Pathway to recorded and quantified. Home model services included the opportunity to PRACTICE EXAMPLES: Promoting inter-agency working Galway Simon – multi-disciplinary team. The multi-disciplinary team consists of a Registered General Nurse, Community Mental Health Nurse, Substance Misuse Counsellor, Relapse Prevention Counsellor and a Chiropodist. The team is managed by Galway Simon Community but the remit covers all homeless services in Galway City. The multi-disciplinary team provide a holistic approach to those experiencing physical and mental ill health and addiction using a case management approach, as well as the active participation of the team at the point of assessment and support planning (see www.galwaysimon.ie/Whoweare/OurMultidisciplinaryTeam.aspx). South East Simon – Housing First worker (see: www.southeastsimon.ie/en-us/servicesweprovide.aspx). A key aspect of this approach is not only a dedicated post for service users with high support needs in stand-alone accommodation, but also a strong statement of intent with regard to joint, inter-agency, working by basing the Housing First worker with other service providers. The post was set up after a gap in services was identified for people with high support needs (see also: http://www.homelessdublin.ie/housing-first).
Which Way Home?
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