One unique resource to the whole of Scotland was given till September, this is a hostel called Thornybauk situated at St. Leonard's Bank with four permanent staff and facilities for seven clients. One more unique Lothian resource bites the dust, Thornybauk is a long stay hostel, often longer than a year, for people with alcohol problems, a problem which is on the increase. It demands intensive psychotherapy from it's residents whose aim is to find out why they cope the way they do, make changes to their lives by taking risks in the safe environment of Thornybauk with dedicated staff , and finally re-assemble their lives. Tall order, and in my opinion one which is perfectly suited to the services offered by Thornybauk.
All this happens in a society in which alcohol problems are mainly misunderstood. they are already emotional victims and vulnerable and often willing targets. If the closure in September goes through what will happen to the current residents already embarked on these changes, many of whom will have cut ties both emotionally and residentially from their previous victimised existence. Will they have to take to the streets?.There will be no more admissions, so no more chances for others. Thornybauk also offers much needed backup, greatly needed when moving back into the community, remember that Care in the Community Policy, ie somebody else's problem. I wonder what will be the immeasurable death toll of these cuts, is anybody prepared to take responsibility?
Hamish