New assessment centre for Milton Keynes

23 January 2007

In response to local need, St Christopher’s is opening an assessment centre that can review all single applicants from 16 - 21 years of age who apply for housing in Milton Keynes.

After extensive consultation with Milton Keynes Council and complete redesign and redevelopment of the site, the new assessment centre will open at Blackheath Crescent, Milton Keynes, in February 2007. 

The centre offers a safe and supportive environment for young single homeless people aged 16—21.

Support is offered for up to 12 weeks with the option of reducing or increasing the length of stay according to each individual’s level of need. During their stay, their accommodation and support needs will be comprehensively assessed.

This follows a review of the housing department by Milton Keynes Council in 2006 that identified the need to differentiate between those in ‘need’ of housing and those who ‘wanted’ housing.
 
Once a service user has been assessed they will be referred to an appropriate level of provision. Referrals will be made to other support providers, who will be identified during the assessment process.

An Individual Support Plan (ISP) will be created and will be an ongoing tool to assist the development of the individual. A ‘keywork’ session will take place between an allocated staff member (keyworker) and the young person on a regular basis.