PORCH Housing Support

 PORCH stands for 'Persistent Offender Resettlement through Coordinated Housing'.
The dictionary defines 'Porch' as a 'sheltered entrance'.

Persistent offenders are a relatively small group of people (about 50 in Exeter, East and Mid Devon) that are responsible for much of the crime in the area. Research shows that providing this group with appropriate accommodation and good support has a positive effect on their offending behaviour.

We take referrals from the multi-disciplinary team which is involved with the defined group of Persistent Offenders. We provide a specialist housing service which arranges access to suitable accommodation followed by support to the client to sustain the placement.

We also offer practical support to the accommodation providers ensuring the placement goes smoothly for both the client and the landlord. We seek to develop relationships with new housing providers in the areas we cover to optimise the range of accommodation available to us.

We work very closely with other agencies within the Persistent Offenders Unit (POU) - Probation, Police, drug and alcohol services as well as external bodies such as GPs, community mental health teams and the benefits agencies.

Our overall aim is to provide comprehensive housing support to our clients to assist their successful resettlement into the community.

What does the PORCH Housing Team offer the landlords?

• Honest and open communication
• Reassurance that your tenant has been fully risk-assessed
• Ongoing support for your tenant by PORCH staff
• Regular visits to your property
• Direct links with housing benefit to fast track claims
• 24 hour telephone support
• Immediate response to problems
• Assurance to move on tenants as and when necessary
• Financial assistance with repairs caused by damage

What does the PORCH Housing Team offer the clients?

• Regular face-to-face emotional and practical support
• Dedicated Housing Worker
• Help with applying for Housing Benefit and JSA/Income Support
• Assistance with applying for essential ID such as birth certificates
• Referrals to training, education and employment agencies
• Advice on day-to-day living skills i.e. budgeting, shopping etc.
• Advocacy
• Practical help with move on plans i.e. referrals and applications