Homeless Step Down Pathway Case Study 6

Julie – name change.

Julie is a 47year old woman who has had a history of problematic drinking for many years, which required a medical detox. She had been admitted to Guys & St Thomas hospital to complete a planned detox, which went very well and was complete within the expected time.

Julie was due to go straight to rehab from detox which was all set up. However, as she had been able to complete the detox 7 days ahead of schedule, a referral was made for her to come to Mildmay for the 7 days to stabilise and rest. This was agreed and Julie arrived here at Mildmay feeling good about the detox but anxious about coming to a new place.

We talked about what she can expect being at here and what is expected of her. This relieved some of the anxiety and she was able to settle quickly. She agreed to not leaving the hospital without an escort as she understood this could put her at risk of relapse.

We went to the shops a few times and it was the run up to Christmas and she wanted to send out cards before going to rehab. These trips went well and Julie was able to talk through any difficulties she was having while being out of the more secure surroundings of Mildmay.

After the 7 days Julie went off to rehab with the accompaniment of her external key worker.

Her worker let me know that Julie got there safely.