Dunedin Homebase Detox Service

Support to safely withdraw from alcohol and other drugs at home

Dunedin Homebase Detox Service provides a free, community-based service for people who want support to safely stop using alcohol or other drugs.

The service provides assessment and day-to-day monitoring during withdrawal, while supporting people within their own community. Support is also available for whānau and friends.

Could Homebase Detox be Right for Me?

You may benefit from talking to the Homebase Detox team if:

  • you want to stop using alcohol or drugs but are finding it difficult to do so
  • going without alcohol or drugs causes you physical discomfort
  • your alcohol or drug use is affecting your family, friends or other areas of your life
  • you have tried to stop but haven’t been able to
  • you feel you need more support or professional help to stop using
  • privacy is important to you
  • you would prefer to withdraw at home
  • you have supportive family or friends who can help you
  • you have suitable accommodation in Dunedin.

If any of these sound familiar, the Homebase Detox Service may be able to help.

How We Can Help

The Homebase Detox Service provides:

  • an initial confidential assessment
  • day-to-day monitoring during withdrawal
  • support for you, your family and friends
  • education and information
  • liaison with your GP
  • referral to other services where appropriate.

The team can also help coordinate ongoing follow-up and support following withdrawal.

What Do I Need?

Home-based withdrawal isn’t suitable for everyone. The team will assess your individual circumstances to determine whether it is a safe and appropriate option for you. Generally, you will need:

  • motivation to stop using alcohol or drugs
  • an appropriate place to stay while you detox
  • a general practitioner (GP)
  • no serious physical or mental illness
  • a support person, such as a family member or friend.

If you’re unsure whether you meet these requirements, contact the team to discuss your situation.

Accessing the Service

You can contact Dunedin Homebase Detox Service directly to make an enquiry or discuss whether home-based withdrawal may be appropriate for you. You can also ask your GP to contact the service on your behalf.

Following an initial assessment, the team will determine whether home-based withdrawal is a safe and appropriate option for you.

There is no charge for the withdrawal service. GP visits and any medications required are at your own cost.

Please note: Dunedin Homebase Detox Service is not a crisis or emergency service.

Can I withdraw from alcohol or drugs at home?

For some people, withdrawing from alcohol or other drugs at home may be appropriate with professional support. Dunedin Homebase Detox Service provides a free, home-based withdrawal service, including assessment, day-to-day monitoring, information and support. Whether home-based withdrawal is suitable will depend on your individual circumstances.

How do I know if I need help to stop drinking alcohol or using drugs?

You may benefit from support if you find it difficult to stop using alcohol or other drugs, experience discomfort when you try to stop, have tried to stop before without success, or your alcohol or drug use is affecting your health, relationships or everyday life. You can contact Dunedin Homebase Detox Service to discuss whether home-based withdrawal support may suit you.

Who can use the Dunedin Homebase Detox Service?

Home-based withdrawal may be suitable if you are motivated to stop using alcohol or other drugs, have an appropriate place to stay in Dunedin, have a GP, and have someone who can support you during withdrawal. The service will assess your circumstances and whether home-based withdrawal is appropriate.

How much does home-based detox cost?

There is no charge for the Dunedin Homebase Detox withdrawal service. However, you will need to pay for your own GP appointments and any medications prescribed as part of your withdrawal care.

Do I need a referral for home-based detox in Dunedin?

No. You can self-refer to the Dunedin Homebase Detox Service, or a referral can be made by your GP or another service. To self-refer, contact the service during business hours, Monday to Friday, on 03 476 6063 or email dunedindetox@gmail.com.