“Too many families are dealing with the devastating effects of ice. This innovative education program will provide them with the knowledge and skills to look after themselves and support their loved ones through treatment.”
“We know that a strong, supportive family can make all the difference for people struggling with ice addiction. That’s why the Ice Action Plan is investing $4.7 million to support families, particularly in regional areas where we know ice has hit hard.”
Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley
Victorian families affected by ice can now access a new, specialised education program as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s $45.5 million Ice Action Plan.
Breakthrough: ice education for families will help Victorians to recognise when a family member has a problem with ice, encourage the affected person to get treatment and support them through their recovery.
Turning Point, Self Help Addiction Resource Centre (SHARC) and the Bouverie Centre developed the program and will deliver it to more than 1000 Victorians.
ABOUT THIS WORKSHOP
Turning Point, SHARC and Bouverie Family Therapy Centre, are pleased to offer BreakThrough, Ice education for families. Facilitators from Turning Point and SHARC will be delivering a number of four hour education sessions to families who have been affected by ICE, a potent crystalline form of methamphetamine. Over the course of the workshop the following information will be discussed.
Topic 1 – The Facts
- Types of drug use
- ICE and effects
- Withdrawal and recovery
- Stages of change
- Treatment options
Topic 2 – Family Strategies
• Responding to challenging behaviours
• Self-care for family members
• Outline a safety plan for all family members
Topic 3 – Help Seeking
• Seeking support, assistance and professional help
Among the scheduled workshops for 2015 are:
Cranbourne – Wednesday 18 and 25 November
Traralgon – Tuesday 24 November
Fitzroy – Wednesday 25 November and 9 December
Melton – Friday 27 November
Bacchus Marsh -Sunday 6 December
Werribee – Wednesday 2 and 9 December
Prahran – Wednesday 9 and 16 December
More workshops will be scheduled across the State for 2016.
Victoria’s Ice Action Plan is investing $4.7 million to support families affected by ice. This involves $1.48 million for new family ice education and $3.2 million for 16 community health services across Victoria to expand family support services.
For more information on the workshops or to register your interest, call 1800 ICE ADVICE or visit http://www.turningpoint.org.au/education/breakthrough
Quotes attributable to Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre Director Dan Lubman
“This is a great opportunity for three major state-wide services to work collaboratively to reduce the harms associated with ice use in our community.”
“This program aims to provide an insight into what ice is, how it affects people and how to support family members into treatment. We will also provide practical approaches in caring for a family member who might be using ice.”