THE first-ever government program aimed at helping criminals overcome drug and alcohol addiction has its first set of graduates.
Twenty inmates with a history of drug or alcohol use from John Morony Correctional Centre (JMCC) took part in the Intensive Drug and Alcohol Treatment Program (IDATP), and all passed with flying colours.
The program aims to reduce drug-related crime and provide a new approach to alcohol and drug treatment.
“I commend the achievements of these 20 graduates,” NSW Attorney General and Minister for Justice Greg Smith said at the recent graduation ceremony held at JMCC.
“In completing this intensive program they have taken a very big step towards addressing their problems with drugs and alcohol.”
Mr Smith said the program was a unique partnership between Corr-ective Services NSW, Justice Health and the Forensic Mental Health Network to address primary health and the mental health needs of off-enders.
“IDATP is a full-time, custody-based therapeutic centre to help offenders overcome drug and alcohol addictions – on a scale never seen before anywhere in the world,” Mr Smith said.
“It encompasses a treatment facility that recognises the multi-layered needs of alcohol and drug dependant offenders.” Treatments include a range of therapeutic, health, education, vocational and employment programs aimed at addressing substance dependence and offending behaviour.
“Treatment is tailored to meet the individual needs of each offender, based on evidence-based best practice. These are methods that are known to work in drug and alcohol treatment and in reducing the risk of re-offending,” Mr Smith said.
He said the concept for the program recognised the importance of supporting participants through their transition to the community and beyond.
IDAPT is being implemented over several stages. The first star-ted in February this year, with the opening of 62 bed units at JMCC. The second stage, implemented in July, saw another 62-bed unit filled and the second class of participants is currently working through the program.
Two more units will be opened next year, resulting in a total of 248 beds before the final stage is implemented in mid-2014.
