Promoting Social Inclusion by Enabling Individuals and Developing Communities
PORCH stands for Prolific Offenders Resettlement through Co-ordinating Housing and it does exactly what the name suggests. Prolific Offenders are a relatively small group of people (about 50 in Exeter, East and Mid Devon) that are responsible for 80% of crime in the area. Research shows that providing this group with appropriate accommodation and good support has a positive effect on there offending behaviour.
How does it work?
PORCH will endeavour to secure accommodation in the private sector, through housing associations and with local authorities, together with providing floating support to each resident on a regular basis. It is anticipated that each person offered assistance through PORCH will be housed in local communities and part of the role of the support staff will be to help integrate the resident into their community, as well as offering them the skills they require in order to sustain their tenancy and lead a crime free life.
Additionally they will be offered treatment for substance misuse, and criminal justice interventions through the Prolific Offender Unit, as well as linking up with other existing provision to give a wide range of support and assistance.
The dictionary definition of a Porch is a sheltered entrance and in a very real sense, this is what the PORCH project will offer to those it works with.
