About Compass
We understand that using drugs/alcohol can make it hard to stay engaged with services.
We are here to help you work out what will keep you safe and well, and what support you need for this.
We will work with you for as long as you need us and in the way that is most helpful for you.
Our support is flexible – we will work with you regardless of whether you remain in treatment.
How We Can Help
We can:
- Support you to identify what, if anything, you want to change in your life – this includes helping you to access same-day treatment to support your substance use
- Assess for community support or care services if appropriate
- Pull together your existing supports such as NHS, Voluntary Support, GP, and Pharmacy to make sure everyone understands what you need
- Support with access to specialist services such as detox or counselling
- We can help your loved ones to access their own support – we recognise substance use affects everyone
Your Referral
People are referred to Compass when agencies become concerned that they are at risk of serious harm, and that they need support to reduce this risk.
You may have been referred due to an admission to A&E, or because your substance use worker is worried about you, for example.
You might find it difficult to work with services. We are here to help you overcome that barrier.
You can refer yourself for this Service, or enquire about getting support for someone you know, by using the online 'Social Work - Contact Us' form below.
What Happens Next?
You will normally be contacted by phone to arrange an initial visit. If you don’t have access to a phone, or we cannot contact you, we will attempt to write to you and may undertake a visit at the address provided.
Your worker will spend time getting to know you and helping you work through the steps needed for you to live your life in the way that you want to.
We can provide 1:1 support to help you reconnect with people or to manage day-to-day living. If we identify specific care needs we can also arrange for further assessment and care if appropriate.
We understand that substance use is a response to trauma and we will work with you in a way that takes account of this, including preparing for participation in therapy.
We understand that people who use substances often experience discrimination, and may have had poor experiences with services in the past. We can support you with rebuilding relationships and ensuring your rights are upheld. We can also refer you for advocacy if needed.