People at risk of harm from alcohol and drug use in Southern NSW will have greater access to support and treatment, with a $20.3 million funding boost from the NSW Government to enhance services over four years.
The investment includes funding for Southern NSW Local Health District and local non-government organisations services, including:
The new program offers treatment and support for an individual’s substance use as well as focussing on enhancing the parents/care givers relationships with their children. The program will include structured alcohol and other drug support groups run over 16 weeks, supported by individual counselling, including with family members, which will be delivered alongside a parenting program. The program is designed to be flexible to ensure it is accessible for parents. People will be able to access ongoing support for up to six months. Up to 34 people and their families will receive support at any one time.
Young people accessing the new day rehabilitation and counselling service will be offered early intervention, structured day rehabilitation, counselling, group education and family support for up to six months. Services will be offered in person and through telehealth, with outreach offered to some rural communities. Around 240 young people and their families will receive treatment and support each year.
Community based withdrawal management and counselling support services will be offered in person and through virtual care. Holistic case management and support will be offered for up to six months, with up to 30 people being supported at any one time. This service also supports people in the Illawarra region.
The district will be able to offer increased access to specialist treatment and clinical expertise through the expansion of critical services such as Substance Use in Pregnancy and Parenting Services (SUPPS), the Assertive Community Management program, offering intensive case management support to people with complex needs; the Magistrates Early Referral into Treatment (MERIT) program; and improved access to hospital consultation liaison services.
The NSW Government held a multiday regional Drug Summit in Griffith and Lismore in November, bringing together health experts, police, people with lived and living experiences, drug user organisations, families and other stakeholders to provide a range of perspectives.
The Summit will also include a Sydney forum to be held on Wednesday 4 and Thursday 5 December,
“I am so pleased to announce this important investment into these life changing services, which will boost access to much needed support services in this region.
“We are continuing our commitment to improving health outcomes for people, and their families, impacted by drugs and alcohol across the state.
“The programs we are investing in, are targeted to meet the unique needs of people living in regional areas, and priority population groups includng Aboriginal people, pregnant women, people with mental health conditions, young people, and people involved in the criminal justice system."
“This is an incredibly important investment in our region. My office deals with a lot of young people and their families who are facing housing stress, and often addiction is connected to, and further exacerbates these situations.
“I am hugely supportive of more options for people to receive treatment and assistance with addiction related health concerns, and I welcome the investment made in our area by the Minns Labor Government.”
“It’s vital we continue to support local community organisations, that work hand in hand with Southern NSW Local Health District to help people achieve recovery and rebuild their lives.”