However, there are benefits to doing so. Our mission at NATIONAL ALLIANCE FOR RECOVERY RESIDENCES (NARR) is to enhance access to quality recovery residences by setting standards, providing education, and advocating for those in addiction recovery. Read more about the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR), including it’s history, standards, and impact on recovery housing nationwide.
The importance of MASH certification
Policies and procedures regarding collection of resident’s information. At minimum, data collection will protect individual’s identity, be used for continuous quality improvement, be part of day-to-day operations, and regularly reviewed by staff and residents (where appropriate). A policy and practice that residents be informed of payments from 3rd party payers for any fees paid on their behalf. You will inform residents upon intake of any fee which they may be charged. You will also disclose home policies regarding living expenses and deposits. Furthermore, you will inform a resident when any fees are paid on their behalf by a third party.
The Massachusetts Alliance for Sober Housing (MASH)
A significant milestone in MASH’s history occurred in 2011 when the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR) was founded. NARR established national standards for recovery residences, which MASH adopted and tailored to meet the specific needs of Massachusetts. This alignment with NARR standards helped MASH strengthen its certification process and expand its influence across the state.
C. Core Principle: Create a culture of empowerment where residents engage in governance and leadership
- In July 2014, Massachusetts passed legislation that mandates the monitoring and voluntary certification of Massachusetts sober homes.
- 27.b Residents find and sustain relationships with one or more recovery mentors or mutual aid sponsors.
- In Methuen, a husband-wife team was harassed by the city with several lengthy requests for code-related information and inspections.
- As we say often at MASH, “Home is not a place.
- Our mission at NATIONAL ALLIANCE FOR RECOVERY RESIDENCES (NARR) is to enhance access to quality recovery residences by setting standards, providing education, and advocating for those in addiction recovery.
In Massachusetts, sober homes and recovery residences are different models for substance abuse recovery. Recovery residences — formerly known as halfway houses — are licensed residential treatment programs, while Massachusetts sober homes are peer-led and do not provide treatment. Sober homes provide mutual support, emphasize independent living skills, and depend on peer leadership.
Policies and procedures that serve the priority population, which at a minimum include persons in recovery from substance use but may also include other demographic criteria. Evidence that staff mash sober housing are supported in maintaining appropriate boundaries according to a code of conduct. Evidence that residents’ recovery progress and challenges are recognized and strengths are celebrated.
» Training Registrations
Verification that each resident has personal item storage. Cultural responsiveness and competence training or certification are provided. Evidence that management supports staff members maintaining self-care. Evidence that some rules are made by the residents that the residents (not the staff) implement. Policy and procedures that ensure all residents are age eighteen or older at time of admission. Written permission from the property owner of record (if the owner is other than the sober home operator) to operate a sober home on the property.
How MASH Certification Ensures Safe, Supportive Recovery Housing in Massachusetts
» Certified Sober Homes
