The Breakaway Aboriginal Corporation kicked off a new support program in Busselton on Monday to help women deal with alcohol or drug issues.
The strong women program, developed in the South West, was held in partnership with the Undalup Association to help women deal with their own issues – or those of family members – remain strong as the festive season approached.
BAC peer mentor Tahnee Nisbett said some people found there was not enough support in the region and they did not know how to access organisations or agencies within their own town that could offer support.
“Sometimes they do not know about the criteria they have to meet to access those services, we do a lot of work with the women around that, so they can identify what some of the problems are and work through it.
“From big things, little things grow, one big goal is coming here to talk about their issues so we can work through it with them.”
BAC peer mentor Gail Hill said a key component of the program was around alcohol and drugs, to help women reduce their intake and build up relationships and communication skills.
“It is about planning and goal setting, even budgeting and cooking healthy meals,” she said.
It was the first time BAC has run the program which was started by Renee Pitt in conjunction with the WA Primary Health Alliance and the Alcohol and Drug Foundation through a Royalties for Regions grant.
The organisation also run a men’s program which started last week at Bunbury Prison where they undertake a support service for pre-release prisoners.
They will also start a youth program next year which will incorporate basketball along with support to help people who have family members with addiction issues.