As demand for addiction services rise, Merchants Quay Ireland’s Athlone Community Employment Scheme provides vital support for continued recovery from substance misuse.
As addiction continues to negatively impact communities locally and nationwide, Merchants Quay Ireland’s Community Employment Scheme in Athlone is providing crucial support for people in recovery from substance misuse.
With MQI reporting a rise in demand for its addiction services across the board in 2021, the scheme aims to provide rehabilitation, training, and development opportunities. We support those in recovery from drug or alcohol addiction and help them to thrive while remaining drug-free.
The CE Scheme assists participants with accessing appropriate treatments and supports, entering or re-entering the labour market, and providing relevant education, training, and work experience. The scheme also offers wrap-around supports, providing links to counselling, housing advocacy, mental healthcare, and individual care plans.
Many past participants have progressed to full-time employment, and third level education.
“Being on the CE scheme gave me new insights into my drug use by gaining awareness of the impact of my drug use on myself and others. It helped me set goals around reducing my drug use and I learned how to cope with a lifestyle that is drug free. The Scheme also gave me the opportunity to work on my personal skills and gave me the opportunity to attend courses which led to me securing full-time employment,” a past participant stated.
Close links have been developed with the Longford and Westmeath Education and Training Board (LWETB ) which has seen a significant number of accredited educational modules delivered, both on individual and group bases. The programme offers a range of opportunities for people in recovery to re-engage with active community and working life.
Participants may be referred by a recognised drug rehabilitation service, medical practitioner, HSE programme or Community Alcohol and Drugs Service (CADS ).
The Scheme pays the Community Employment rate as set out and funded by the Department of Social Protection and is a vital support service for individuals who are committed to addressing their recovery and maintaining their stability. In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and accompanying restrictions, it is more important than ever to grow and maintain the supports available for this vulnerable group. We currently have vacancies and are keen to recruit.
For more information, please contact the MQI CE Program at 086-0428166 or 089-2353244.
