Oldham Drug and Alcohol Action Team, have recently launched, and are reaping the success of a new group in Oldham, which is one of the first of its kind in the country.
Oldham’s ACCE project which is aimed at tackling people aged 18-30 who are recreationally using Alcohol, Cannabis, Cocaine or Ecstasy has had over 70 referrals since it was set in November 2007.
‘It’s widely recognised that drugs can have a knock on effect into the rest of your life, even if they aren’t being used every day’ explains DAAT strategy manager Kay French.
‘The ACCE group is about involving people in the 18-30 age group who are using any of these substances and feel this has started to affect their lives, for example it could be impacting their job, school or college, they may find that they are suffering from mood swings, or low self esteem, or it may be that they are concerned about the amount of money they are spending.’
‘Typically young adults using these substances may have left school early with little or no qualifications have a poor work record, have a feeling of boredom or exclusion from life. Some of the target group may even have taken risks with their safety, health or sexual health because of binging on drink or drugs.’
‘The ACCE project aims to give this target group a fresh start by putting on activities which they may not normally be able to do, we hope to break the cycle of boredom while stimulating these young adults to take pride in what they have achieved whilst boosting their self esteem.’
So far participants have benefited from lifestyle coaching, one to one professional advice on healthy eating, stress management, and sleep management, physical activities such as mountain biking, and access to a range of free accredited courses including healthy eating, and exercise.
The ACCE Project is working in partnership with the Amateur Boxing Association of England, OCVYS and the Oldham Sea Cadets in opening Oldham only affiliated amateur boxing club. The new club will allow not just ACCE clients but clients to be involved in this fantastic opportunity. Boxing alongside the more obvious health benefits also can also contribute to developing self discipline, self esteem and confidence within clients.
‘We want anyone involved in the ACCE group to understand that there is a positive future for all of them, and they can aspire to a fulfilling life, and get back into education, training or a job which they will enjoy.’
For more information on the ACCE project contact Oldham DAAT on 0161 621 9101
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