Criminal Justice - life experiences

Patricia is a 43 year old who has experienced diffiiculties in her life for a considerable time.  She has been homeless for the past three and a half years, dwelling in hostel accommodation or sleeping rough.  Patricia has three children aged 20, 22 and 23 years.  She maintains contact with one of her sons, who has a learning disability and alcohol misuse issues. 

Patricia commenced using alcohol at the age of 12 and reported to consuming one bottle of Southern Comfort and six cans of Lamont pilsner on a daily basis.  This was taken in addition to occasional heroin (intravenous), diazepam and cocaine use.  Patricia also developed a history of offending behaviour, including Breach of the Peace and Assault, which can be directly linked to her alcohol use, compounded by her mental health issues.

Patricia entered the 218 service via referral from the Addiction Liaision Service/Psychiatric Liaison Team at the Southern General Hospital, in association with the Homeless Addiction Team.  Patricia had been admitted to the hospital after overdosing on alcohol and paracetamol.

Patricia was admitted to the residential unit with a planned demission date being within the period of four to six weeks. 

Patricia fully engaged in one to one sessions and attended a groupwork programme twice a day, which helped her address her substance use, criminal justice issues and trauma and loss. A structured daily programme was adhered to encapsulating medication, exercise, relaxation, external and internal reviews, meeting with other agency workers, social care and regular house meetings.

Substance use: Whislt experiencing periods of discomfort, Patricia has successfully completed her diazepam detox.  Throughout this period, Patricia was closely monitored by the in-house medical and nursing team.

Offending behaviour: Patricia is currently on bail and is scheduled to appear at court later this year.  Patricia continues to work on her offending behaviour.

Physical and mental health: On admission Patricia's health needs were substantial.  All her needs were addressed, utilising the expertise of the in-house nursing staff, visiting medical officers, mental health staff, physiotherapist and sexual health nurse in addition to her own GP.  Patricia has also established links with Glasgow Association for Mental Heatlh (GAMH) to access befriending and support services in the community.

Accommodation:  After due consideration it was decided that it would be more appropriate for Patricia to have her own tenancy.  A furnished flat was offered and duly accepted.

Future plans and goals: Patricia continues to access a service with 218 through the day service programme.  She has an allocated keyworker.  This allows Patricia to develop her relapse prevention skills further and deepen her understanding of her triggers to use alcohol and drugs, whilst maintaining an adequate level of support.