Dear Editor, They say the only constant in life is change—and at DHI, helping people navigate change is at the heart of what we do. It’s also something we must be skilled at ourselves, as an organisation working in an ever-shifting landscape.
After 25 years of delivering drug and alcohol treatment services in Bath and North East Somerset, and 13 years in Bristol, these services will now be delivered by Turning Point, following a Public Health contract decision. Naturally, this is disappointing. However, our mission remains unchanged: to support those most marginalised in society to achieve their potential.
We continue to be an integral part of the support network for people with drug and alcohol needs across all our regions—through specialist employment services, supported housing, education for young people, and our work with individuals facing both mental health and substance use challenges in the criminal justice system. We also remain deeply committed to supporting families and carers, and are pleased to confirm the date of our annual Families Conference in June, which you can sign up to below.
While we adapt to change, some issues remain stubbornly persistent. Homelessness is rising, with a record number of households in temporary accommodation—159,830 children among them. The housing crisis continues to demand urgent attention. That’s why we were honoured to host the Rt Hon Darren Jones MP, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, for an in-depth discussion during his visit to one of his constituents—Bruno, a DHI client whose life has been transformed through social impact investment via Resonance.
With the stability of a safe home, Bruno has embraced change, rebuilt his life, and is now giving back to his community. Stories like Bruno’s are a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we believe in people, invest in potential, and work together for lasting change.
Thank you, as ever, for standing with us.
Warm wishes,
Rosie Phillips, CEO and founder of DHI
For more visit https://www.dhi-online.org.uk/