What is the Triangle Tenancy Service?

The Triangle Tenancy Service is a housing initiative run by Nacro in collaboration with the Essex Drug Interventions Programme (DIP). The service houses Essex DIP clients who are currently homeless and are at risk of re-offending due to class A drug use.

TTS was developed due to a lack of suitable housing for DIP clients.  Stable housing is the key to rehabilitation and stable accommodation can be the difference between staying in treatment and returning to crime.  Evidence shows that those leaving drug treatment or custody without housing needs being met are more likely to relapse or reoffend.  Those who are housed are more likely to lose their accommodation if they don’t receive the correct support to sustain the tenancy.  In a national survey by Addaction in 2005, 83% of substance misusers felt that stable housing was one of the most important services required to stay clean

The Triangle Tenancy Service rents one bedroom flats from private landlords to clients who are successfully engaging with Essex DIP. Properties are located throughout the Essex DAAT area.

To be eligible for the scheme the individual must be an Essex DIP client, actively engaging to address drug misuse, not be committing crime, not live with dependent children and be prepared to work with NACRO, floating support staff and SOVA volunteer mentors where appropriate.

Floating support is provided by Intouch, Family Mosaic and Swan who are contracted by Essex County Council Supporting People. All potential TTS clients must consent to receive floating support and an assessment of client need is considered as part of the decision to admit the client to the scheme. Floating support offers a tailored package designed to assist clients to live independently and is in place for as long as the floating support worker and client feel is necessary. Floating support is enhanced with the use of SOVA volunteer mentors.

The admissions process comprises a one to one interview with the client and the application is considered at the multi disciplinary panel. In the event of a refusal the applicant can appeal the decision to an independent panel. Terms of reference for both panels are in existence and are regularly reviewed.