Are you a support provider?
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, enables the service user to have the best possible chance of maintaining a tenancy once they are rehoused. This approach also ensures that all relevant agencies or professionals are involved.
Often the individuals who are rehoused through the Single Gateway Scheme maybe excluded from the HomeChoice route. This could be because they have offended or maybe too young and have never had their own tenancy.
How does the Single Gateway Scheme Work?
The Single Gateway works with partners from the following agencies. The following agencies make referrals to the service and in turn provide support for identified individuals.
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Probation service
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Leaving Care services
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Tyneside Cyrenians
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Saint Bedes House
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Norcare
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Byker Bridge Housing Association
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Youth Offending Team
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Criminial Justice Intervention Team
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Prolific Offenders Scheme
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Three Rivers Housing Group
Police vettings are carried out for those applicants who have offended and The Gateshead Housing Company's neighbourhood relations team advise whether an applicant can be considered for rehousing. There is a close working relationship between this service and the Single Gateway Co-ordiantor 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.
During the Tenancy
There is a proactive reponse 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 tenancy reviews are held with some of the services who deal with higher risk individuals to ensure all are informed of any changes or increased risks. Continual monitoring and contact,
Regular tenancy reviews are held with some of the services, which deal with higher risk individuals to ensure all 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.
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.