Together for Mental Wellbeing SMI

Together are the commissioned provider of the Norfolk Integrated Housing and Community Support Service (NIHCCS), which is the main specialist mental health community support contract commissioned by Norfolk County Council and N&W ICB.

Although mental health is usually the primary need, staff are also experienced and trained in supporting people who have complex needs, accommodation challenges, substance misuse, forensic history, learning disabilities and vulnerable people with a history of non-engagement with services. They specialise in recovery-focused care and support people to transition into more independent living; avoiding the need for longer-term care and support. They work collaboratively and creatively with service users, to explore issues and find solutions which draw on their assets, as part of our strength-based approach. They support people to develop skills and social connections, building independence, resilience and self-esteem to successfully move away from paid support.

They have a proven track record in working with hard to engage service users where other agencies have given up and failed, and working with people in crisis. Peer Support is an important element of their service offer and a key aspect of the rehabilitation team's model and multi-disciplinary approach. Together has been partnered with NSFT to provide specialist recovery support as part of the Rehabilitation in Complex Psychosis team since September 2022.

Their work is integral to the community rehabilitation in complex psychosis model and enables the team to meet the needs of its service users in an integrated and multi-disciplinary way. Together also provides important links and routes into other System partners and VCSE support, including the Norfolk Alcohol and Drug Behaviour Change Service, housing services, district authorities, and other voluntary sector providers.

This contract is being made in accordance with 'Direct Award Criteria A' from the PSR guidance. The contract will run from 1st April 2024 to 31st March 2026.