Multiple disadvantage and co-occurring substance use and mental health conditions.

Substance use and mental health needs are two of the primary concerns for many people experiencing multiple disadvantage. We know that people who experience both issues at the same time (also known as “co-occurring conditions” or “dual diagnosis”) find it difficult or impossible to access the right support for their needs.

However, despite these concerns, appropriate support for people with co- occurring conditions remains an unresolved challenge for many local areas. Without appropriate support, individuals’ health, wellbeing and trust in services can be drastically harmed. In this briefing, we:

1. Examine the prevalence of co-occurring conditions among people experiencing multiple disadvantage

2. Explore the existing national guidance around supporting people with co- occurring conditions

3. Investigate the barriers to accessing support for co-occurring conditions

4. Investigate the enablers to accessing support for co-occurring conditions

5. Recommend improvements in policy, commissioning and local practice for

   people with co-occurring conditions.