High demand for services at Aislinn Centre

By Naoise Coogan

There is a consistent demand for the services offered to young people at the Aislinn Centre in Ballyragget according to its recently launched annual report for 2007 which details facts and figures about the centre.

Aislinn provides drug-free rehabilitation treatment for persons between the ages of 15 and 21 years who have developed a dependence on alcohol and/or drugs.

There is continuing high demand for the services at Aislinn and the staff have noticed a continuing increase in the use and abuse of illicit drugs among 15-21 year olds.

Speaking at the launch this week, new director of the Aislinn Foundation, Declan Jones explained the nature of the treatment available at the centre in Kilkenny.

“The treatment we offer is provided in an adolescent-friendly, safe environment where the dignity and respect of each person is vital. The programme we use is based on the philosophy of total abstinence from all mood-altering drugs. Last year 109 young people were treated here.”

He also added that alcohol continues to be the gateway drug for young people many of whom begin drinking at the age of 11 or 12.

Young people stay at the centre for 6 week’s duration; this can vary depending on the needs of the individual client. The centre consists of a team of professional addiction counsellors, nurses, nurse assistants, consultant psychiatrist, administrative, catering, maintenance and relief personnel. Sessional staff include a teacher, an art teacher, a psychodrama therapist and recreational/leisure instructors. Family participation is encouraged throughout.

“In 2007 Aislinn increased its capacity to work with the families of young alcohol / drug abusers. Our success rate in helping young people turn around their lives continues to be high.

“We not only believe in the priceless potential of young people but we are enabling them to unlock that potential and fulfil the dreams and expectations that they and their families have for them,” said Mr Jones.

“During treatment, emphasis is placed on an integrated approach to respond to the whole person and to begin to nurture their self-worth and dignity. We try to help them find meaning in life and a desire to live a healthy lifestyle, free from alcohol and drugs. Aftercare is also a vital component of the programme.”

Junior Minister John McGuinness launched the annual report and said the Aislinn Foundation, provides an invaluable service to young people in Ireland.

“The centre is a fantastic resource for the young people of Ireland. The staff here do a wonderful job and provide excellent service. Alcohol and drug addiction is so common among young people and it’s great to see Aislinn helping adolescents to better themselves and create a brighter future for them.”

Aislinn is a registered charity governed by trustees and board of management. Aislinn receives its funding from a number of statutory agencies namely the Health Services Executive and Probation Service. Alongside this they also receive funding from private health insurance agencies VHI, Quinn Direct and Vivas.

Fundraising events are organised annually to help maintain young people in the recovery programme and the family support programme.

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