Ongoing support, especially in the period immediately leading up to and following the successful completion of a programme, is vital. Willowdene Farm, therefore, provides a comprehensive resettlement package to assist residents in choosing options for their future, and then supporting them into those choices.

Each resident will enter into a resettlement ‘contract’, which will begin at around the fifth month of their programme, and will be tailored to suit each individual’s personal requirements.

Close working links with Job Centre Plus, Work Assist and the Citizen’s Advice Bureau provide residents with access to extensive resources and support throughout their job and accomodation search. Willowdene Farm’s own resettlement staff work closely on a day-to-day basis with each resident as they move through the resettlement process.

Residents are given assistance to set up bank accounts, obtain identification (passports, birth certificates and driving licences), and given training in preparing a curriculum vitae, attending an interview, and in presentation techniques. Willowdene Farm also offers basic training in money management and time management.

Having left Willowdene Farm, a resident who successfully completed his programme is offered up to three months of continuing formal support as they find their way in their new location and job. This usually takes the form of regular phone calls, and formal visits that include drug testing.

Life is a journey, and we don’t always get the outcomes for which we had hoped. Willowdene Farm does not sever links with former residents once the three month period of formal resettlement has ended, and provides aftercare to residents who find themselves facing situations that require further therapeutic input.