Published: Thursday 26 March 2026
The Rough Sleeper Dual Diagnosis Service (left to right): Darren Skeete, Charlotte Northall, Gavin Stewart and Cllr Sof McVeigh, lead member for housing.
A man who spent decades battling addiction is helping others rebuild their lives by working for the unique Kensington and Chelsea Council service he credits with saving his life.
Darren Skeete was at “crisis point” when he met Gavin Stewart, the manager of the Council’s Rough Sleeper Dual Diagnosis Service (RSDDS).
The unique service helps people address mental health issues and substance misuse through therapy, rehab and additional ongoing support.
Gavin took him to his first group session and helped him to develop hope and belief that he was able to break the cycle of addiction.
Now, almost two years free from substance abuse, Darren is employed as an RSDDS peer support worker and uses his own lived experiences to help others going through similar struggles.
Darren said:
“The Dual Diagnosis Service was the catalyst for change and the start of everything that saved me. When I was using, I wanted to help others but couldn’t even help myself. Now I can finally give something back.
“This service is the best thing that ever happened to me. It has allowed me to be a parent to my kids and to be there for my mother who is a cancer patient. At my lowest, I was absolutely in despair, but now I wake up in the morning and I’m able to find the silver lining in the clouds.
“There’s a saying in recovery about living a life beyond your wildest dreams. I can honestly say that’s my life today. I’m peaceful. I’m free.”
Cllr Sof McVeigh, lead member for housing, said:
“Darren’s story is a powerful example of the damage of addiction and how, with the right help, that can change. This is why the Council invests in services that empower our most vulnerable residents, so they can stand on their own two feet.
“By supporting those with complex needs to address their issues, we can enable real change that benefits individuals, their families and the wider community. The dedication of the members of this team is inspiring and the real care and commitment they show helps transform lives.”
The Rough Sleeper Dual Diagnosis Service provides tailored, peer-based support for residents whose mental health challenges and substance use are closely linked, helping them move towards stability, independence and long-term recovery.
Since its formation in 2021, the service has helped more than 40 people into rehab, including 14 over the past year.