PEOPLE suffering from drug and alcohol abuse issues will benefit from a new group formed with the help of a state government grant.
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The Right Path consortium received $554,291 from the Department of Health to run a pilot project.
The consortium is led by Western Region Alcohol and Drug Centre (WRAD), with Glenelg South Grampians Drug Treatment Services and Colac Area Health.
WRAD director Geoff Soma said the consortium would ensure the broad needs of clients were met.
“Some clients have multiple issues, including mental health, housing, and alcohol and drug use that require care and co-ordinated intervention to get them back on their feet,” he said.
“This gives them that opportunity.
“It’s a good thing because finally we’re being given the resources to provide those services. We’re very thankful for the extra resources.”
Mr Soma said it wasn’t uncommon for people with alcohol and drug abuse issues to be faced with other social issues.
“The journey of drug and alcohol abuse can be incredibly challenging,” he said. “People can reduce or give up drugs but still have mental health issues and housing issues. It’s an incredibly complex mix.”
Consortium team leader Sybil Braybrook said the group wanted to make sure that people who needed support were accessing the services required.
“We have specialised services available and will identify gaps and develop new referral pathways to make the client’s journey easier,” she said.
“It follows a no wrong door philosophy to make sure clients get the right service provided by appropriate specialists to improve their mental, physical and social well-being. We have a strong focus on client participation.”
The service will be available to people aged above 18 with complex alcohol or drug addiction problems and associated mental health conditions. It will also work with families and carers to ensure a holistic approach.
Ms Braybrook said the consortium was focusing on recovery and maintenance and would use evidence-based therapeutic counselling to promote positive change. The team will also be supported by a psychologist.
Ms Braybrook has been joined by clinicians Kayleigh Walmsley in Warrnambool, Wendy Howe in Glenelg and Maude Berry in Colac.
“We hope to prove over the next eight months of our funding that we are providing a service that helps people to make the right choice and makes a real difference in their lives,” Ms Braybrook said.