Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Residential treatment is a live-in rehab programme where you stay at a facility full-time to focus on recovery from addiction. At Ark House, you receive structured therapy, peer support, and guidance in a safe, supportive environment
The cost of rehab varies depending on the type of treatment, length of stay, and level of care required. At Ark House, we offer tailored programmes to suit individual needs and work with a variety of funding options, including self-funding, insurance, and local authority support.
For detailed information and a personalised quote, you can contact our admissions team on 01723 371869, who will guide you through the available options.
In rehab, you live at the facility full-time and take part in a structured programme designed to support recovery. This includes:
- Individual and group therapy to address the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of addiction.
- 12-Step programme support to build long-term coping skills and abstinence.
- Peer support and community activities to strengthen connections and accountability.
- Aftercare planning to ensure ongoing support once you leave rehab.
- At Ark House, treatment is personalised to your needs, helping you focus fully on recovery in a safe, supportive environment.
The length of rehab varies depending on individual needs and the complexity of the addiction. At Ark House, programmes typically range from 6 weeks to 6 months.
At Ark House, we provide residential addiction treatment based on the proven 12-Step model. Our programmes combine individual and group therapy, counselling, holistic support, and mental health care to address the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of addiction. We treat alcohol and drug dependency, helping clients build lasting recovery skills, and we support ongoing care through aftercare, family support, and peer networks.
At Ark House, you have the right to safe, respectful, and confidential care. You can ask questions, be involved in decisions about your treatment, and access support when needed. You also have the right to privacy, dignity, and to be treated without discrimination, as well as to access aftercare and ongoing support throughout and after your recovery journey.
Ark House does have a series of rules that we expect service users to comply with. These rules help maintain boundaries that keep everyone safe while clearly defining what you can and cannot do. Boundaries are necessary for safety but also provide structure for recovery. In return, we offer:
- You will be treated with dignity and respect at all times, and we expect you to behave in the same way.
- You will have full confidentiality, except where the safety of someone else is involved, especially a child.
- You will be assigned your own therapist on admission.
- Specific needs will be met, such as diets for medical, ethical, or cultural requirements.
- You will have a safe and comfortable environment.
- You will be registered with a local GP on request.
At Ark House, relationships are built on trust, respect, and shared commitment to recovery. We understand how important it is for you to feel at ease during your stay and comfortable with the staff at our private rehab. We encourage you to talk to the staff about any concerns, questions, or comments. You will also be assigned a specific keyworker who will work closely with you throughout your stay, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way. Our team is genuinely “on your side,” and we want you to get well as much as you do.
Your relationship with other clients will largely be one of mutual support, which is a central part of your recovery. Through group therapy, workshops, and shared activities, most people develop unique bonds with their peers that often last for many years, providing ongoing encouragement and connection during and after treatment.
Preparing for rehab can feel overwhelming, but packing the right items can make your stay more comfortable and stress-free. Here’s a simple guide on what’s allowed, what’s helpful, and what should be left at home.
What to Bring:
Clothing
- Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes for everyday use (e.g., jeans, t-shirts, jumpers)
- Sleepwear and undergarments
- Trainers or walking shoes
- Light jacket or waterproof coat
- Towel
Tip: Laundry facilities are available, so pack for 7–10 days.
Personal Hygiene Items
(Must be unopened or sealed)
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Hairbrush or comb
- Shampoo & conditioner (provided, but you can bring your own if you have a preferred brand – non-alcohol-based)
- Body wash (provided, but you can bring your own if preferred)
- Deodorant
- Feminine hygiene products (if applicable)
- Razor (disposable or electric – depending on facility rules)
Medication
All current prescription medication in original packaging, clearly labelled and in date
- Ideally, a full 28-day supply
- Printed medication summary from your GP or prescriber
Personal Items
- Books (choose non-triggering content)
- Photos of loved ones for emotional support
- Glasses or hearing aids if needed
- Mobile phone (usage may be restricted)
Documents
- Photo ID (passport or driver’s license)
- Medical summary and discharge letter (if coming from detox or hospital)
- Contact information for your key worker or support services
- Computers or anything that connects to the internet such as smart watches, tablets etc
- Pornographic materials
- Illicit narcotics or prescription drugs not declared previously to staff
- Football shirts or other colours such as team scarfs, flags, banners etc
- TV’s, Portable audio-visual devices or DVD’s and DVD players
Ark House is a trusted name in recovery for over 30 years, combining professional expertise with lived experience to offer compassionate, effective treatment. We provide a safe, supportive, and structured environment where residents can focus fully on healing from addiction.
Our approach is person-centred and evidence-based, built on the proven 12-Step model, ensuring recovery addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. You’ll be supported by a highly trained team, many of whom have personal experience of recovery, giving you care that is both professional and deeply empathetic.
We also offer ongoing free aftercare, family support groups, and a global 12-Step fellowship, so your support network continues long after you leave. At Ark House, recovery isn’t just possible — it’s happening every day, and we guide you every step of the way.
At Ark House, we treat a wide range of addiction issues, including:
- Alcohol addiction
- Drug addiction (prescription, over-the-counter, and illicit substances)
- Co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders
While we do not provide direct treatment for gambling addiction, we support residents with gambling difficulties by referring them to trusted partner services for ongoing care once their alcohol or drug treatment is complete.
Our approach focuses on addressing the root causes of addiction, providing structured therapy, 12-Step support, and personalised care to help you achieve lasting recovery.
Yes. At Ark House, we take a holistic approach to recovery. While our main focus is on addiction treatment, we also support you with related issues such as:
- Mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, or trauma
- Emotional regulation and coping strategies
- Relationship and family difficulties
- Life skills and building a routine for long-term recovery
Support Programs
Addiction is holistic in nature, so treatment must be too. Ark House Rehab goes beyond addiction and mental health recovery by assisting clients with housing, resettlement, and debt management.
Housing and Resettlement
A major challenge for individuals recovering from addiction is securing stable and safe housing. Many Ark House clients have lost their homes or have strained relationships with family and friends, making post-treatment living arrangements difficult. While we cannot guarantee housing, we do everything possible to support clients in finding safe and suitable accommodation.
Debt Management
Addiction often leads to financial challenges, and many clients arrive with significant debt. Ark House works with clients to create personalised debt management plans, including identifying debts, budgeting, and negotiating with creditors. The goal is to help clients achieve financial stability and independence, allowing them to focus fully on recovery without the burden of financial stress.
Our team of qualified therapists and support staff works with you to address these areas alongside your addiction, ensuring your recovery is comprehensive, supported, and sustainable.
When considering entering treatment, there are several key points to keep in mind:
Readiness to Change – Recovery is most effective when you genuinely want to stop using substances and are committed to making positive changes in your life. Entering treatment for yourself, with no hidden agenda, is essential.
Willingness and Open Mind – Be prepared to go to any lengths for your recovery, remain open-minded, and actively participate in all aspects of the programme, including groups, lectures (mandatory), and one-to-one sessions.
Honesty and Compliance – Honesty with yourself and others is critical. You should be willing to comply with simple instructions and the rules set by the rehab to maintain a safe, structured environment.
Type of Treatment – Residential rehab provides 24/7 support in a structured setting, while outpatient care allows you to attend therapy sessions while living at home.
Support System – Think about your family, friends, or other support networks. Ark House offers family support groups to help loved ones engage in the recovery process.
Health and Safety – Consider any physical or mental health issues. Our assessments ensure your care is safe, appropriate, and tailored to your needs.
Boundaries and Rules – Rehabs have rules to maintain a safe environment. At Ark House, you will be treated with dignity and respect, have your own therapist, and your specific needs will be met, including diet, medical, or cultural requirements.
Aftercare and Ongoing Support – Recovery continues after leaving rehab. Ark House offers free, lifelong aftercare, online and in-person support, and access to our social media community.
Practical Considerations – Think about housing, finances, and work. Ark House can assist with housing, resettlement, and debt management as part of holistic recovery.
Engagement with Peer and 12-Step Support – Participation in peer support and 12-Step programmes can greatly enhance long-term recovery.
Being prepared to meet these expectations can help you make the most of your time in treatment and set a strong foundation for lasting recovery.
Before admission to Ark House Rehab, you can contact our Outreach and Admissions Team who will guide you through the referral and assessment process.
You can reach us via:
Phone: 01723 371869
Email: [email protected]
Our team will explain the programme, answer any questions, and arrange a free, confidential assessment to determine the best treatment plan for you.
We can accept referrals from:
- Yourself (self-referral)
- Family members or friends
- Healthcare professionals or social workers
During this initial contact, you’ll be asked for basic information such as name, date of birth, contact details, addiction history, and any relevant medical or mental health information. This ensures we can provide safe, personalised care from day one.
At Ark House, aftercare is a lifelong commitment. Recovery doesn’t end when you leave the rehab — our support continues every step of the way, completely free of charge and with no time limit.
We offer:
Weekly Aftercare Sessions: Every Monday, clients can join in-person sessions to reflect on progress, discuss challenges, and reinforce the skills learned during treatment.
Social Media Community: Private WhatsApp and Facebook groups allow clients to stay connected, access peer support, and engage with the Ark House recovery community — anywhere in the world.
Family Support: Families can continue attending our Saturday support groups, helping them maintain healthy relationships and understanding of recovery.
Telephone Support: Available day or night for guidance, advice, or simply a friendly chat.
Ongoing Referrals: We connect clients with local or specialist self-help groups to ensure continuous support wherever they live.
Online Sessions & Lectures: Weekly Zoom groups and recovery workshops provide further education, reflection, and encouragement in early recovery.
Our aftercare programme ensures you never feel alone in your journey, helping you maintain sobriety, manage challenges, and continue building a fulfilling, addiction-free life.
When coming into treatment at Ark House, keep in mind:
Enter treatment for yourself: Be honest about your intentions, with no hidden agenda.
Be committed: Have a real desire to stop using and be willing to go to any lengths for your recovery.
Keep an open mind: Be ready to learn, try new approaches, and embrace change.
Participate fully: Attend all group sessions, one-to-one meetings, and lectures — these are mandatory parts of treatment.
Follow guidance: Be willing to comply with simple instructions and rules that help maintain a safe and supportive environment.
Be honest: With yourself and others about your struggles, experiences, and progress.
Accept support: Build relationships with staff and peers, and be open to receiving help as well as giving it.
Understand the challenge: Rehab is in no way a quick fix. If done properly, it is perhaps one of the hardest things you will ever do, but the rewards are massive.
These commitments create the foundation for a successful recovery journey and help you get the most out of your time at Ark House.