Michael’s story…what Bridge to Home looks like in practice

When Michael was referred to Bridge to Home, he was on a mental health ward following a serious episode. He’d been taken into custody, was talking to himself, responding to things that weren’t there, and showing signs of being very unwell. He hadn’t taken his medication in months and wasn’t in contact with any services.

He’d been living with his parents in East Lancashire, but going home was no longer an option. His mental health had declined, and alcohol had become a major way of coping.

Michael had previously received support through Early Intervention and the Home Treatment Team, but by the time Bridge to Home became involved, he was no longer engaging and felt like there was nowhere to turn.

Support began while he was still on the ward. There was no discharge plan in place… no housing, no benefits, and very little trust in the system. Progress came gradually, through building relationships and taking things one step at a time.

He was supported to apply for Universal Credit, and a supported accommodation placement was secured in Accrington. He was registered with a local GP, referred to Inspire for alcohol support, and began attending a local men’s group through Red Rose Recovery to help rebuild routine and connection.

His mental health team and the Home Treatment Team were re-engaged to ensure continuity of care. A basic mobile phone helped him stay connected, and regular visits took place at his accommodation. Staff also stayed in touch with on-site workers to make sure any issues were picked up quickly.

There were some setbacks, including a relapse shortly after moving in. But setbacks are part of recovery. Instead of starting again, the right people came together to talk honestly and keep momentum going. That consistent approach helped Michael stay engaged and begin to build real resilience.

Now, he’s in a stronger place. He’s abstinent, regularly attending recovery sessions, taking his medication, and working with his GP and mental health team. There’s more stability in his life and he’s the one keeping it going.

“When I came out of hospital, I felt completely lost. I didn’t know where I was going to live or who was going to help me. I was drinking too much and everything felt like it was falling apart. Now I’ve got somewhere safe to live, I’ve stopped drinking, and I finally feel like I’ve got people around me who care. That means more than I can explain. Letting people in wasn’t easy. But it’s what helped me start again”

The projects main aim is to reduce delayed discharges by supporting people to access safe, stable housing as soon as they are ready to leave hospital. Each individual receives tailored one-to-one input, including support with housing, benefits, healthcare access, and ongoing recovery. The service works closely with local teams and wraparound providers to ensure a joined-up response to mental health, substance use, and social needs. By focusing on people’s strengths and providing practical, hands-on support, Spring North’s Bridge to Home project helps individuals regain confidence, rebuild trust in services, and move forward with greater stability. The project is delivered with the support of trusted delivery partners, helping ensure consistent and compassionate care from hospital to home.