Admissions
Getting into treatment at Abbington House starts with a phone call. Whether you are calling for yourself or someone close to you, our admissions team will talk you through what happens next.
In many cases an assessment can be arranged quickly, and admission can take place within days rather than weeks.
How do admissions work?
The first conversation is about understanding what is happening now and whether Abbington House feels like the right place to start.
Admissions are arranged directly, without the need for an NHS referral or waiting list. There is nothing formal to prepare before calling, and where treatment feels right, next steps can be arranged quickly.
Michael Garnham - Director of Admissions
In recovery for over twenty five years.
I know how much it takes to make that first call, because I had to make it myself. It can feel daunting, for the person struggling and often for the people around them too. My team's role is to make the part that follows feel clearer: to listen, answer questions, and help people understand what happens next.
Admissions in three steps
Step 1 - First conversation
A phone call with a member of the admissions team. We talk through what has been happening, what support has already been tried, and any immediate concerns around health, withdrawal, work, or family. It is also a chance to ask questions and see whether residential treatment feels suitable.
Step 2 – Confidential assessment
If it feels like the right fit, we arrange a confidential assessment. This helps us understand your situation in more detail, including substance use, physical and mental health, whether detox may be needed, and any additional support needs.
Step 3 – Planning arrival
If treatment moves forward, we agree an admission date and talk through practical arrangements. Where detox is needed, this is planned in advance, so by the time you arrive, you will know what to expect.
If you are calling for someone else
Many admissions conversations begin with a partner, parent, sibling, or close friend. If someone you care about is open to support, we can help talk through what the next steps may look like. If they are unsure, we can still help you think through what feels realistic and what options may be available.
Your privacy
Entering treatment is a personal decision, and the admissions process is confidential throughout. Your details are not shared with anyone without your consent, and any records you provide are held securely. With your permission, we can speak to a GP, prescriber, or employer to support planning, but only if you want us to. You decide who knows.
If you need adjustments
If you live with ADHD, autism, or anything else that affects how you experience a new environment, the admissions process can be adapted. That might mean a written summary of what to expect rather than a long call, a quieter arrival time, having someone with you for the conversation, or taking the first days at a gentler pace. We will ask what would help during the assessment, so it can be planned before you arrive.
Fees and what is included
Treatment is a single fixed fee covering the residential stay. Questions about fees and what is included are covered on our rehab costs page, and questions about how long treatment lasts are covered on our length of stay page.
What treatment looks like at Abbington House
Admissions explain how people get into treatment. What it actually looks like day to day, including detox, therapy, family support, aftercare, and the structure of residential treatment, is covered within residential rehab.
Speak to admissions
You do not need to have made a final decision before calling. Many people contact us simply to understand what their options are. A confidential conversation can help you understand whether residential treatment is appropriate and what the next steps would look like.