Dealing with drug abuse and offending behaviour

18 June 2007

There is often a perception that drug use is a city problem, but it has been the experience of Hunter New England Health MERIT caseworker Catherine Spora that illicit drugs are readily available in the Tamworth district. 

During Drug Action Week, Hunter New England Health is highlighting the work of the Magistrates' Early Referral Into Treatment (MERIT) Program, which provides an innovative approach to dealing with drug abuse and offending behaviour. 

The MERIT Program allows offenders appearing before Tamworth Local Court access to drug treatment, in an attempt to address their drug-crime cycle.

“It allows suitably motivated offenders to be diverted from the legal system and placed into drug treatment, which is managed by Hunter New England Health,” Ms Spora said.

“The three-month program is sustained, structured and intensive, requiring offenders to address many personal issues in addition to their drug taking behaviour. In effect, the MERIT Program offers a practical solution, to an often complex and difficult social problem.”

Ms Spora said that ideally the offender is referred as soon as possible after their arrest, though in practice most are referred at Tamworth Local Court by their solicitor.

“To be accepted, the offender must have a demonstrable drug problem and be willing to participate in drug treatment. The program is restricted to adult offenders who have current matters before the local court,” she said.

“An individual treatment plan is tailored for each participant. Most participants face complex problems, from health issues, mental illness through to unemployment and associated financial and housing difficulties.

“Recognising that substance abuse is a chronic and recurring disorder, the MERIT Program maintains constant supervision over the recovery process of each participant,” Ms Spora said.

The Tamworth MERIT Program makes use of a comprehensive range of health and welfare services; including detoxification and rehabilitation programs.

For more information about the Tamworth MERIT Program, call Hunter New England Health on 6766 8081.

Drug Action Week® is an initiative of the Alcohol and other Drugs Council of Australia (ADCA) and is a national week of activities to raise awareness about alcohol and other drug issues and to promote the achievements of those who work to reduce drug related harm. For more information, visit http://www.drugactionweek.org.au

Contact: Shannon Ramadge

Phone: 4921 4924