700 Club is working with Darlington’s Housing Options Team to offer Housing First, a proven approach to supporting people with complex needs who have not benefited from traditional services.

Housing First at the 700 Club is about providing homes, stability, and the personalised support people need to rebuild their lives.

What is Housing First?

Housing First prioritises giving people a stable, independent home as a foundation for addressing other challenges, such as mental health, substance use, or long-term homelessness. Unlike traditional models, there are no preconditions for housing—tenancy is a right, not a reward.

This approach is widely used internationally, including in the US, Canada, Finland, and France, and is growing across the UK.

• How Housing First Works

The model is built on seven key principles:

1. People have a right to a home

• Housing is provided quickly, based on suitability, not conditions
• Tenancy is secure, even if support is not used

2. Flexible support for as long as needed

• Support is tailored, long-term, and adapts to changing needs
• Links with wider services to meet holistic needs

3. Housing and support are separate

• Engagement with support does not affect tenancy
• Support continues even if housing is lost or changed

4. Individuals have choice and control

• People decide where they live and how support is provided
• Support plans are person-led, not imposed

5. Active engagement approach

• Staff work proactively to engage clients, doing “whatever it takes”
• Small caseloads ensure persistent, personalised support

6. Strengths, goals, and aspirations focused

• Support builds confidence, skills, and self-worth
• People are empowered to achieve their personal goals and integrate into the community

7. Harm reduction approach

• Support reduces risks from substance use, self-harm, and other health issues
• Recovery and wellbeing are promoted alongside safe housing