'He handled himself very well'

When Prince Charles unveiled the newly-revamped rehabilitation facility at Featherstone House three years ago, he spoke admiringly of how staff help heroin and cocaine addicts regain their self esteem. He said residents leave with a sense of what they can contribute to society and view themselves in a "new and positive light".

He had no idea then, of course, that his younger son would benefit from the centre's expertise.

Situated in extensive grounds in Forest Hill, the centre is designed to help abusers who have already received help for their addictions to re-enter society. Many have been through detoxification in the NHS.

Social workers and counsellors work with up to 31 residents for up to six months, helping them come to terms with why they became addicted. The first three months are undertaken in the main rehabilitation centre before residents move into re-settlement accommodation.

Residents, who range from 18 to the mid-forties, are equipped with skills to allow them to cope without lapsing back into addiction. Some are found work placements while others are encouraged into further education. Others are taught more basic skills like cooking, cleaning, budgeting and getting used to a routine. Once they leave, there is a fourmonth aftercare service. Funding comes from social services departments, the probation service and a grant from the Housing Corporation.

Referrals usually cost councils about £350 a week.

The expertise of the staff is crucial but just as important is the opportunity for residents to learn from their peers, just as Prince Harry was allowed to do when he visited the centre in the summer.

Bill Puddicombe, chief executive of the charity Phoenix House - which runs Featherstone House - said: "Harry went to the group room and saw the living accommodation. He had a cup of tea and visited another room where people were talking about their life stories. Some of the things he heard would have been quite harrowing. He was interested in the situation. He talked to people. He handled himself extremely well and the feeling was that the visit had gone well."