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Addictions battle plan

An ambitious new plan to combat addiction on the North Island has been unveiled.
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At the Health Network’s circle discussion people share their experiences and ideas to fight addiction.

An ambitious new plan to combat addiction on the North Island has been unveiled.

The Mt. Waddington Health Network’s Addictions and Recovery plan was revealed Nov. 30 at U’gwamalis Hall in Fort Rupert, followed by a circle discussion where concerned citizens shared their views and experiences regarding addiction and possible solutions.

“I think we had good responses,” said Sandra Waarne, facilitator for the Mt. Waddington Health Network.

The plan outlines several problems with current addictions services and solutions to those problems, including: greater integration and cooperation between services; more and better local facilities —  including proper detox and sobering centres — individualized care that takes peoples’ personal needs and underlying traumas into account; proper aftercare and reintegration programs; education about drugs and drug abuse, and about available services; greater responsiveness and accountability; and, for First Nations, revival and participation in indigenous culture.

A large number of local organizations are coming together to help make these goals a reality. “Everybody has a piece of the pie,” said Waarne.

The plan is in its first draft, and alterations will be made as needed.

Another meeting is scheduled at U’gwamalis Jan. 11 to discuss practical implementation of the plan.

“The fact of getting out of addictions is a journey, and people need trust and support on that journey,” said Waarne.