ASSIST - Actively Supporting Social Inclusion in South Tyneside

ASSIST provides Floating Support to vulnerable people aged between 18 and 64 who have multiple and complex needs such as substance misuse, dual diagnosis, offenders or ex-offenders, those displaying anti-social behaviour, single homeless, homeless families and rough sleepers.

Floating support can be included as part of a new tenancy agreement or by additional agreement under an existing tenancy. There is no cost and the service can be contacted through South Tyneside Council.

Support available includes:

• Welfare rights advice
• Help with applying for DSS grants and loans
• Finding furniture for empty flats or houses
• Information on local facilities
• Access to health care, leisure, transport, support and activity groups.
• Help with budgeting, paying bills and debts
• Information on basic home security, maintenance and dealing with emergencies
• Networking with specialist advice and support agencies to meet individual needs
• Help with filling in forms
• Advocacy eg having someone to do the talking for you on certain issues you feel you can’t deal with
• Building self confidence
• Assistance with finding a job, paid or voluntary and training
• Befriending and emotional support
• Just someone to talk to