Pilot project aims to help addicts
The programme, which is being coordinated by the Southern Regional Drugs and Alcohol Taskforce (SRDAT), will initially last a year and involve a multi-agency approach to helping addicts get back on the straight and narrow.
Gordon Kinsley, a SRDAT development worker, said the pilot programme would be based on a scheme called COAIM which had been very successful in Wexford.
“There were 249 clients involved in a sample study there over a two-year period and there was a very high increase in the reduction of crime, as well as in the clients’ morale and attitude,” Mr Kinsley said.
The Youghal programme will look at 10 aspects of the client’s life including behaviour, accommodation, social skills, lifestyle and associates as well as their financial circumstances.
“The other agencies involved will be the gardaí, local authorities, HSE drugs and alcohol services, Department of Social Protection, MABS, South East Cork Area Development (SECAD), the Probation Service and a health worker.”
