What happened when we opened the doors at Passmores House

“I thought it was going to be more like a hospital”

On Thursday 1 October we opened our residential detox and rehab centre, just outside of London, to visitors, as part of the national Open Houses campaign.

Most people have never been inside a rehab. That includes a lot of people who have worked in this sector for years, and it shapes what they imagine and what they tell the people they support.

So on Thursday 1 October we opened the doors at Passmores House.

Visitors came from the Department of Health and Social Care, Collective Voice, the NHS, local authorities, homelessness services and other treatment providers, alongside colleagues from services across Via. Others came for themselves, or for a family member, to see the place before deciding anything.

Our clinical team ran tours through the building, answered questions about detox and rehab, and talked through how referrals work. There were talks through the day, and a chance to meet the people who do this work.

What came back, more than anything, was surprise.

“I thought it was going to be more like a hospital, but it’s not at all.”

“What stood out was the calmness of the place and the therapeutic feel. The staff were very friendly and dedicated to the cause.”

For someone weighing up whether to come in for detox, or trying to help a person they love decide, that’s not a small thing. It’s hard to say yes to somewhere you can’t picture.

Darren O’Meara, Service Manager at Passmores House, said:

“The Open Houses event is so important because it gives a glimpse into the world of Passmores House. We were able to share what an amazing place this is, and a brief look at the dedicated work the team do every single day, alongside the day-to-day life of the people who live here.

“I hope everyone who came away feels as excited and inspired as we do, and will pass on what an important place it is in so many people’s lives.”

Knowing what actually happens at Passmores makes it easier to talk to someone about residential treatment, and about whether it might be the right next step. That’s as true for a keyworker in a community service as it is for a family trying to work out what the options are.

You don’t have to wait for the next open day.

If you’re thinking about treatment for yourself, or for someone close to you, you’re welcome to come and see the place first. There’s no commitment, and you don’t have to explain why you’ve come. Call 01279 634 200 or email passmores@viaorg.uk.

If you work in a service, we can arrange a visit for you or your team. And if you’d like to refer someone, everything you need is on our page for professionals.