Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association Projects
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Residential Care Projects
PRA residential projects are located in the London Borough of Haringey. They were established in response to the needs of people with mental health problems after discharge from hospital and who are unable to live with family members so live alone. Neuroleptic drugs can control psychiatric symptoms, but continued progress requires co-operation with medical advisers.
People with mental health problems living alone are more vulnerable and may be less motivated to continue with their treatment, and, if they lack domestic and daily living skills, may mismanage their resources. This self-neglect often leads to secondary poverty, ill-health and relapse. These people need support to help them succeed in the community. Our research showed that the relapse rate of people with mental health problems living on their own without support is extremely high. It is therefore essential that they are appropriately housed and receive adequate support in order to develop a rewarding life-style.
Residents living in our registered care homes live as a "family" sharing the decision-making and the responsibility with help from the staff. Shared meals are an integral part of group living. Residents receive regular support from staff who will give help with planning menus, preparing food, housework-rota planning, and problem solving. Staff will also arrange for repairs, redecoration, and maintenance of the house. In the event of a relapse, early signs of deterioration will be recognised by the staff, who will alert the appropriate medical or social work services. If dealt with at an early stage, relapse causes less stress to others residents and invariably requires a shorter recovery time than if a major crisis is allowed to develop. It is for this reason that assurance of co-operation in the event of a possible relapse are sought from the referring source before an applicant is accepted for residence.
Residents are encouraged to have a role in the community as well as in the house. Staff will support residents in obtaining voluntary work or a possible job, or to attend a Day Centre, a sheltered workshop or other schemes to occupy the day time. Staff will also help in arranging leisure activities.
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