Charis invites applications from men between 21 and 65 (exceptions may be made to this age group) who genuinely seek abstinence-based recovery from alcoholism and / or drug addiction. They would need to be homeless or in danger of becoming homeless (in the broadest sense ), and receiving state benefits.  Applications from ethnic minorities and gay/bisexual/gender reassigned men are welcome.    
 

Charis only helps those who do not receive funding. Charis provides the group work programme free of charge for most applicants. The applicant must, however, be able to receive housing benefit here to cover the board and lodging charge.

The applicant would need to be genuinely honest, open and willing to undertake a 12 step programme and to look at the emotional issues underlying his alcoholism / drug addiction.
 

Charis would not be suitable for anyone who is not willing to look into and talk about his childhood.
The applicant must have (and keep) recovery as their top priority. He must be committed to change.
 

Charis would not be suitable for anyone who is closed to the basic spiritual dimension of himself.

Charis will not  accept referrals from applicants on remand or due to be released from prison. Applications would need to be made after release from prison.

Charis would not be suitable for anyone who was unable or unwilling to participate in group work or to carry out the individual step-work. The Programme requires basic literacy skills.

Charis cannot accept anyone with a mental health problem.

Charis cannot accept anyone with an eating disorder.

Charis is not able to accept those who have committed sexual offences or who have a history of violent offending or arson.

The applicant must break with any criminal activity and the lifestyle that goes with it.

The applicant must be willing and able to come off all mood altering substances including anti-depressants, tranquillisers, sleeping tablets etc. and off any strong painkillers AND have come off these before admission. Medical advice should have been taken into consideration where necessary .