How do I apply to stay at
Grace House?
You will need to get an application form from your OMU worker. They should be able to help you fill in the form.
What happens if I change my mind and don’t want to come to Grace House?
You need to tell us as soon as possible so that we can give your place to someone else.
We understand that coming to our project can be a big decision so please do speak with us if you have any questions or concerns.
How will I get to Grace House?
We have volunteers who will pick you up from the prison gates and bring you to the house.
Do I have to pay rent?
Yes, you do. Rent can be paid from your Housing Benefit if you are eligible.
There is also a weekly maintenance charge, which covers your utility bills.
Will I need to share a room with anyone?
No, you will have your own room with your own key.
Is there a curfew?
No, there isn’t.
But you may have licence conditions you will have to meet.
Do I have to take part in the life skills Training?
Attending life skills training is not essential. However, upon arrival staff will work with you to create a plan to help you get the most out of your stay. This may include attending courses which you think will be beneficial.
Are there men at Grace House?
Grace House is accommodation for women only.
Can I have visitors?
No., we cannot have visitors in the house unless they are Official Visitors such as probation or solicitors.
Can my friend stay overnight with me?
No, we cannot have visitors in the house unless they are Official Visitors such as probation or solicitors.
Can my children stay with me?
No, we can’t have children visiting or staying at the house. Your Support Worker will work with you to maintain family ties and help you to see your children, if that is permitted.
Can I smoke at Grace House?
ID Grace House UK has a no-smoking policy which includes the use of e-cigarettes. This means that residents are not allowed to smoke or vape in the house. There is a designated smoking area in the garden where you can smoke or use e-cigarettes.
We can give you support in partnership with NHS services, if you wish to reduce or stop smoking.
Can I drink alcohol at Grace House?
No, Grace House is a dry house. No alcohol can be brought into or drunk in the house. These regulations also include drugs. Women found in possession of drugs or alcohol in the house may be asked to leave.
Will I be tested for drugs in Grace House?
You will be tested for drugs and alcohol on first arriving in the house, there will also be random drug and alcohol testing throughout your stay.
How long can I stay at Grace House?
You have to agree to stay at Grace House for at least 4 months, and how long you can stay after that time depends on each individual woman. We will be working with you to help you find permanent accommodation.
Do you offer detox facilities?
No, we don’t. We are not a medical facility and we don’t have medically trained staff on site. We can however, offer you referral information for detox programmes.
Can I stay at Grace House if I’m pregnant?
No, we don’t have the facilities to take in pregnant women.
Can I stay at Grace House if I’m not coming from a prison?
Grace House is accommodation for women coming from prison only. The need is so great that we don’t have the space to take on women from the general community.
Do I need to be a Christian to come to Grace House?
No, we are a Christian organisation but Grace House is open to women of all faiths and none.
Am I able to take medication such as Methadone whilst at Grace House?
Yes, you can. In the first week of your stay, you will need to register with a local GP and you can then work with them regarding any medical needs you may have. If you would like to reduce or change your medication during your stay with us, we ask that this is always done with the professional medical guidance of the GP. We are not a medical facility so we cannot hold for administer any medication for you.
Can I get counselling at Grace House?
Yes, you can. We offer free professional counselling for those who feel they need it.
Are there any medical/mental health conditions that I might have that may stop me from staying at Grace House?
We are unable to take women with any major medical or mental health issues that cannot be supported in the house. We consider each application on an individual basis, taking into consideration additional medical information.
What support can I get when I leave Grace House?
We hope that once you leave Grace House you will be ready to live the life you want to lead. Staff will be able to signpost you to additional support outside of Grace House, including our sister project ID Essence, if appropriate.