DRUGS - BREAKDOWN, HOMELESSNESS - OFFENDING - ALIENATION

BREAKING THE CYCLE OF ALIENATION (HIV/AIDS)

Those who have to live with HIV/AIDS very often have to live also with the stigma and discrimination that has built up around the disease. The cycle of neglect, alienation and poor opportunities for appropriate support and housing is being broken by Adullam Homes through its sensitivity and added care and unconditional support for those living with HIV/AIDS.

Since 1990 AdCare, a service of Adullam Homes Housing Association Ltd, has become a major provider of supported housing for people living with HIV and AIDS in Birmingham.

"From the outset Adullam Homes has been at the forefront of setting up housing provision for people with HIV infection. Their projects have been planned and built to very high standards, taking into account both short and long term needs of the occupiers. " (Shirley Mallon, former HIV Co-ordinator, Birmingham City Council Social Services Department).

Appropriate accommodation

A range of independent, self-contained flats, houses and bungalows are dispersed anonymously throughout the community. Every effort is made to ensure that tenants feel secure and comfortable in their homes.

"I have referred a number of clients to Adullam Homes for housing and I am delighted with the outcome. Clients have been housed with ideal accommodation appropriate to their needs. Clients feel safe and are very happy with their living environment and supportive, caring service of the co-ordinators". (HIV Counseller).

Some properties are designed to accommodate a wheelchair, others are to mobility standard. Every effort is made to ensure that specific design features are unobtrusive, encouraging people to feel empowered and positive about the future.

"I appreciate everything that AdCare does for me and consider that I have received many bonuses. AdCare have brought me a comfortable, independent lifestyle and the will to fight for my own survival". (Service user).

Confidentiality & friendship

Flexible, unconditional support is available from specialist staff who are fully aware of the issues around confidentiality.

"AdCare respects the confidentiality of the clients and has empowered people to maintain quality of life despite the most disturbing symptoms. People with AIDS coming to the end of their life are exceptionally vulnerable and they can trust Adullam to stand by them". (Social Services HIV Co-ordinator).

Staff are friendly, approachable and well informed regarding the issues around HIV. Individual members bring to the team specialities of their own, gained either from personal experience or as a result of intensive staff training.

"I will never forget your kindness and help to my son throughout his illness, thank you for being there when we needed your help". (Parent).