• 23 Hitchin Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 3BJ
  • Admissions
  • 23 Hitchin Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 3BJ
  • Admissions

Admissions

Reaching out for support can feel daunting. Our admissions process is designed to be clear, calm and straightforward, guiding you from your first conversation through to arrival.

Michael Garnham - Director of Admissions

Deciding to seek treatment for addiction is an incredibly brave decision, but the thought of getting the recovery process started can feel overwhelming for people and their loved ones during this time. It is the job of my team to walk you through the admissions process and support you in taking that brave first step.

You are in safe hands with us.

Your Journey to Recovery in Four Simple Steps:

Step 1 - Contact

Making the first call is often the hardest part. Whether you’re enquiring for yourself or someone you care about, our team will listen, answer your questions and explain what happens next. If assessment confirms suitability and a place is available, admission can often be arranged quickly. There is no pressure to commit, the decision to enter treatment must feel right for you.

Step 2 - Confidential Assessment

After your first conversation, we’ll arrange a confidential assessment. This is not a test or diagnosis. It’s a supportive discussion to understand your situation and decide whether residential treatment is appropriate. The assessment usually lasts 45–60 minutes and takes place by phone or video call. In some cases, face-to-face meetings can be arranged.

During the conversation, we may explore:

  • What substances you’ve been using and how often
  • Previous attempts to stop, including past treatment
  • Physical and mental health
  • Current medications
  • Sleep, appetite, mood and anxiety
  • Home or work circumstances
  • What you hope might change

You don’t need to prepare anything formal. The more open you feel able to be, the clearer we can be about how to support you.

Why This Step Matters

The assessment allows us to:

  • Ensure residential treatment is clinically safe and appropriate
  • Identify whether detox is required
  • Begin shaping an individual treatment plan
  • Understand any mental health or additional support needs
  • Recommend alternatives if Abbington House isn’t the right fit

It also gives you space to ask practical questions about daily life here, therapies, family involvement, what to bring, and what your first week may look like.

What Happens Next

After the call, our admissions and clinical team review your assessment.

If we’re a good fit, we’ll offer a place and talk through admission dates and arrival arrangements.

If detox is required, we’ll explain whether this can be managed safely within our residential setting or whether a separate medical detox is recommended first.

If we’re not the right service, we’ll guide you toward appropriate alternatives where possible.

We’ll also explain treatment costs clearly, so you can make an informed decision. There is no obligation to move forward immediately.

For Loved Ones

Many enquiries come from partners, parents, siblings or close friends.

If your loved one is open to support, we can:

  • Offer guidance on how to approach the conversation
  • Arrange an assessment directly with them
  • Help you prepare for possible admission

If they’re not ready yet, we can still talk through your options and offer practical advice.

Step 3: Treatment Planning

Once you decide to move forward, we’ll agree on a start date and begin preparing your personalised treatment plan.

Our clinical and admissions team review your assessment carefully to ensure everything is in place from day one. If detox is required, this is planned in advance so you arrive knowing what to expect.

Before arrival, we’ll confirm practical details and answer any remaining questions. By the time your start date comes, you won’t be walking into the unknown, you’ll understand what’s happening and why.

Step 4: Welcome to Abbington House

On arrival, you’ll be welcomed by our team and shown around at your own pace.

Your first day is designed to feel steady and settled. You’ll meet with a member of the clinical team to review your plan and ensure you feel safe and supported from the beginning.

From that point on, you’re not doing this alone.

Call Us When You're Ready

We understand how daunting that first conversation can be. Our admissions team are here to talk you through next steps when you feel ready.