The “Single Gateway” Scheme
The single gateway is an innovative scheme which addresses social exclusion and homeless prevention. The Single Gateway Co-ordinator liaises between support agencies and The Gateshead Housing Company to identify accommodation and a tailored suitable support package to vulnerable service users who would otherwise struggle to maintain their own tenancy.
Offering support and accommodation hand in hand, this enables the service user to have the best possible chance of maintaining a tenancy once they are re-housed. This approach also ensures that all relevant agencies or professionals are involved.
Often the individuals who are re-housed through the Single Gateway Scheme may be excluded from the housing register. This could be because they have offended or have rent arrears or may be under 18 and have never held their own tenancy.
The support package ensures that they are offered the appropriate assistance to become good tenants.
For more on the Single Gateway Scheme please see questions and answers below:
How does the Single Gateway Scheme Work?
The Single Gateway works in partnership with a number of agencies across Gateshead. They make referrals to the service and in turn provide support for identified individuals.
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Who are our partners in the scheme?
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Northumbria Probation ServiceGateshead Young People’s Service (Leaving care team)
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Tyneside Cyrenians
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Three Rivers Housing Group
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Norcare Ltd
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Byker Bridge Housing Association
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Gateshead Youth Offending Team
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Criminal Justice Intervention Team
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Aquila Way
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NECA Housing services
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Outpost Housing project
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What If I am excluded from the Housing Register?
Police vettings are carried out for those applicants who have offended and are excluded from the housing register. The Gateshead Housing Company’s neighbourhood relations team consider exclusion and advise whether an applicant can be considered for re-housing. There is a close working relationship between this service and the Single Gateway Co-ordinator around risk and the implications for the wider community. If it is decided that the applicant can be re-housed with appropriate support, the Single Gateway Co-ordinator will work with The Gateshead Housing Company to identify a suitable property.
The emphasis is very much on multi-agency working and it is The Single Gateway Co-ordinators role to facilitate this and to act as the “broker” between housing and support services.
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How would my tenancy be monitored?
There is a proactive response to risk and problem solving when an applicant becomes a tenant, and review meetings are an important part of the scheme. Risk Management meetings are also encouraged if there are ongoing issues to be considered.
Regular updates are held with the providers to ensure that the support offered is relevant and effective. Updates also ensure that for higher risk individuals, all involved parties are informed of any changes, or increased risks. Continual monitoring and contact, as well as addressing the negative issues around the tenancy, helps to acknowledge areas of good practice, ensures strong professional relationships and ensures a creative and flexible approach to supported housing in Gateshead.
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Are you interested in becoming a partner?
If you are interested in becoming a partner with the Single Gateway Scheme, then please see the contact details at the top of the page.
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How do I find out if I am eligible for this scheme?
If you are a client and would like to find out if you are eligible for this scheme then please contact the Single Gateway Co-ordinator on 0191 4332643.
Alternatively, please contact your social worker, YOT case manager, drug & alcohol worker, or support worker to discuss your options and make a referral to the scheme on your behalf.
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