News

Wesley Mission today announced the launch of a new Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Service which will broaden the reach of its vital work to a larger and more diverse number of Wesley Mission clients.

Through AOD outreach workers the new program will provide a range of psycho social interventions to people requiring alcohol and other drug services that will include case management, the provision of specialist assessment of alcohol and other drug use and support of people as they reintegrate into the community.

“This will be a versatile and flexible program which will be accessible to Wesley Mission clients who are receiving support and care through Wesley Mission’s homeless persons’ services, child and family services, private hospitals, aging and disability services, chaplaincy services, counselling services and youth programs,” said Andrew Mitchell, Wesley Mission’s Group Manager, Health, Counselling and Rehabilitation.

“Wesley Mission clients will be able to obtain thorough assessment, case management care, psycho-education and solution focused counselling and outcomes from a broad range of locations.

“Wesley Mission clients in AOD detoxification and day patient group therapy will also be able to utilise the AOD outreach workers as they reintegrate back into their local communities.”

The program will establish and maintain strong community links and networks. AOD outreach workers will liaise closely with health professionals and other service providers in areas such as mental health, employment and housing.

“This is a joined up approach providing long-term solutions for a larger and more diverse number of people in the community and Wesley Mission clients,” Mr Mitchell said. “It is an integrated service which is compassionate, flexible, skilled and responsive.”

The development of the new program will mean the transition of Wesley Mission’s locally based residential Rehabilitation Service.

All clients currently in the Wesley Rehabilitation Service residential program will be able to complete their programs during the next four to five months as the existing program winds down to closure. Clients will continue to receive therapy, accommodation and support. Once their individual programs are complete clients will be supported by Wesley Mission AOD workers.

All current clients are guaranteed accommodation. Some will be accommodated through Wesley Community Housing at Ashcroft while others will be found accommodation through Wesley Mission’s suite of accommodation services. Those needing ongoing AOD support will be found alternative residential rehabilitation assistance.

Andrew Mitchell
Mobile: 0401 999 720

Dinoo Kelleghan
Public Affairs Officer
Mobile: 0434 076 644