London's Detox Unit for Homeless Closes

0:00On March 26, London's only dedicated detox unit for homeless people struggling with drugs and alcohol is closing at St. Thomas Hospital. The Department of Health and Social Care blames rising costs, saying the service is no longer affordable with current funding. It faced a 1 million pound shortfall last year and beds went unused at times. Open in 2021, the unit helped rough sleepers safely withdraw while offering peer support, group activities, health screenings, and mental health care. Lord John Bird, co-founder of the Big Issue, called the move short-sighted and warned it would flood emergency rooms, streets, and prisons with more. Chaos. He said it undermines the mayor's goal to end rough sleeping by 2030. The mayor's office noted it's not their responsibility, but is pushing health authorities for minimal disruption and new services. Meanwhile, the government is investing 3.4 billion pounds over 3 years in addiction treatment and recovery.

1:00Health Secretary West treating plans a close look, drawing from his family struggles to ensure vulnerable people get care where it's needed.