Our mobile day support program Roadmaps is having a positive impact on the lives of people living in regional and rural NSW.
Roadmaps has only been operating since April but already, this free mobile alcohol and drug support program for adults is changing lives. Funded by the Western NSW PHN and the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, the six-week program has run in Gllgandra, Dubbo, Wellington, Nyngan and Warren.
David*, aged 25, participated in the program and is making big changes as a result.
David was referred to Roadmaps by Community Corrections. Since the age of 15 he has had a serious problem with cannabis. Community Corrections staff gave him two choices: enter live-in rehabilitation away from country or complete the Roadmaps program.
“The support and acceptance I got from the Roadmaps team encouraged me to keep going and the strategies I leaned have given me hope for the future,” he said. “My relationship with my partner has improved and I am doing things I never imagined. I’ve been out for lunch at a café and eaten my first ever ‘melt’. I’m walking the dogs and I’ve enrolled in TAFE to study a Certificate 2 in Construction.” Belonging to the Kamilaroi mob, David is taking his interest in art to the next level and has started selling his artwork online.
Jane* is another person whose life has turned around thanks to Roadmaps. She participated in the program when it ran in Gilgandra recently. Jane had been living a hermit lifestyle and was misusing ice on a daily basis.
“Roadmaps has provided me with a safe place to talk about things,” she said. “In the Roadmaps group I am around people who are making changes to their lifestyle, so we are all learning together and trying new skills. “I am feeling heaps better. I’m eating better and have put on some weight. We talk about respecting yourself and I am learning to do that and to believe in myself.”
Roadmaps provides intensive rehabilitation support which includes individual and group counselling sessions, information and referrals to other services.
People can join the program by self referring or being referred. For more information email [email protected] or phone 0429 927 714.
*Client names changed to protect privacy.