A brief introduction from the Manor Women’s Project Director

Alison Cattell

First of all I would like to thank you for visiting our website.

The Manor women’s project was set up in 2003 and is a not for profit drug rehabilitation residential support centre catering for 15 females suffering from substance misuse. We are funded through Housing Benefit; a contribution is made by the client from their State Benefit.

The initial model for the Project was client led and formed the basis of a coherent plan that of treatment and support that continues to evolve in conjunction with the current social demands. We estimate the project is about 90% client led which probably accounts for much of its success. Neither we nor the clients see this as a short fix remedy, hence, the average term for residency can be up to three years however this is entirely up to the client, whereby positive self determination and regulation provides meaningful long term results.

We accept a range of referrals and work with many different sources, including:-drug rehabilitation agencies, probation, prison, social-services, parents, police, even self referrals from all over the UK. So if you or anyone you know is experiencing substance misuse problems, please feel free to contact us.

The process of interviewing prospective clients involves a full assessment of need and social history, in conjunction with the source of referral. Interviews can take place within other institutions such as prisons or other statutory or non statutory settings. The house rules and regulations are clearly stated; we are careful to ensure where ever possible that the potential client is genuinely committed to turning their lives around within a supportive environment. We drug test our clients 2-3 times weekly.

The Manor project has many partners helping with the rehabilitation and wellbeing of our clients, including volunteers who provide hours of unpaid support.
We encourage all our clients to attend local colleges as a means of increasing their opportunities to improve themselves educationally, socially that will provide accredited qualifications in helping them find employment. To date, against the odds, we have clients who have successfully progressed through this programme and who are in full time employment. (See Achievements page on this website).

Support and services we offer:

  • One to one support
  • Group work within the project
  • Drug testing
  • Support with benefits
  • register with GP/Dentist/ opticians
  • Support with mental health/signposting
  • Support with appointments
  • Regular group chats
  • Support with a range of social issues
  • Support with correspondences/ forms etc;
  • Support with exercise and diet
  • Support with money management (if needed)
  • Support with contact with family/ children
  • Support with health
  • Support with life skills, day to day living
  • Signposting to other services i.e. counselling
  • Support with court cases
  • Support into education and volunteering
  • Involvement of family and others who can help with your long term recovery
  • Support with personal support plans

I hope this brief introduction has addressed some of your questions; however, if you wish to learn more about us please feel free to contact a member of staff on 01922-648401. We would be pleased to chat with you and discuss any outstanding questions you may have.

Alison Cattell
Director
Manor Women’s Project