THE Salvation Army will launch a new program in Swan Hill to support people caring for a young person with an alcohol or other drug (AOD) problem.
Be The Change is an education-based program to help family and friends who are impacted by a young person’s AOD use, but group facilitator Meagan McGregor said the group offered more than that.
“The group aims to provide a safe forum for people in similar circumstances to come together and share their journey,” she said.
“The education component is important and will assist family and friends to understand the nature and causes of addiction as well as how to provide support to someone dealing with it.
“As an AOD counselling support service, The Salvation Army also recognises that dealing with a loved one’s problem can be a difficult, emotional, and isolating time for family and friends.
“It can be a time fraught with worry and conflict and there is still stigma and misinformation associated with the problem and this causes people to not want to speak openly about it.
“Coming together for the program will also allow people to meet others in a similar situation and perhaps build additional support networks at the same time.”
The eight-week program is part of a new youth AOD focussed service funded by Murray PHN across the Swan Hill, Gannawarra and Buloke shires.
Other services include phone support and referral service for young people and their family and friends, a local website and education programs within schools and community groups.
“We are really looking at educating people to reduce the risks associated with alcohol and other drug use,” Ms McGregor said.
“Addiction does not discriminate, it affects all people from different walks of life and can impact on all areas of a person’s life including relationships, finances, physical and mental health, employment and can lead to legal problems.
“Swan Hill has a range of alcohol and other drug supports and part of my role is to ensure people are supported early and directed to the right supports to suit their needs.”
The program is a new initiative in Swan Hill and will run every second Thursday at 7pm at The Salvation Army office in Beveridge Street.
An online delivery of the program will also commence to accommodate people who are not able to travel to Swan Hill.
To find out more or to register your interest visit www.youthaod.com or contact Meagan McGregor on 0400 754 603
