SIG Equinox: Leading the Way in Alcohol Harm Reduction and Recovery

Aspinden Care Home, part of the Social Interest Group’s Equinox service, is leading the way in alcohol management through a harm-reduction approach—the only one of its kind in England. Aspinden Care Home provides a Managed Alcohol Programmes (MAPs) service as part of harm reduction strategies. To support residents with severe alcohol dependency.

For many residents, alcohol dependency is not something that can simply be “switched off.” At Aspinden, we understand this reality. Through our open-door policy, residents can drink in a controlled environment, which helps them manage their condition. The goal isn’t to enable alcohol use but to reduce harm while supporting individuals through their journey toward better health.

This harm-reduction model is often the first step on the path to recovery. Residents frequently progress to detox, rehab, or total abstinence, once they’ve stabilised and received the emotional and practical support they need. By managing their alcohol intake in a controlled environment, residents can gradually build the foundation for long-term recovery.

Harm Reduction in Action

Harm reduction is more than just a policy—it involves practical, real-world actions that can significantly reduce the negative effects of alcohol use. Some examples include:

Supervised Drinking: Residents can drink under supervision, preventing dangerous binges and reducing the risk of harm or medical emergencies.

Personalised Care Plans: Each resident receives a tailored plan based on their individual needs and challenges, ensuring they get the right level of support at the right time.

Emotional and Social Support: The staff at Aspinden help residents address the root causes of their alcohol use, often related to isolation, mental health challenges, and trauma.

Many of our residents have been turned away by other services because the behaviours they present can be extremely challenging to support, as often mental health and cognitive behaviours are challenged. Many are in poor physical health and need our nursing care. We have additional medical support from a visiting GP. At Aspinden, they find a last refuge, where their humanity is recognised, and they are given a final chance to regain stability. People referred to us often face overwhelming stigma, leading to a cycle of homelessness, hospitalisations, or even imprisonment. Our specialist care home offers them a safe space to rebuild their lives.

Breaking the Cycle of Stigma and Isolation

Aspinden’s residents are often too unwell to seek help themselves, and are referred by family members, police and social care teams. Residents tell us they feel they have failed numerous times in other forms of recovery programmes. Feel isolated and alienated from family, friends and community as a whole. Aspinden’s compassionate, harm-reduction approach allows residents to manage their alcohol use in a non-judgmental environment.

Our approach not only reduces harm but also helps residents regain a sense of control over their lives. By offering consistent, supportive care, we can help break the cycle of alcohol use and isolation.

Social Interest Group has a long history of supporting vulnerable individuals who face complex barriers such as homelessness, mental health issues, and substance misuse. Our mission is to empower people through creative solutions, partnerships, and services that improve health, independence, and well-being.

If your organisation is interested in learning more or would like to discuss potential referrals or collaboration opportunities, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Visit our dedicated page or contact us at 02072370331 or enquiries.ach@equinoxcare.org.uk

Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.