The service is being run by not-for-profit charitable organisation The Buttery and will support those who have been treated for alcohol and/or drug dependence (including prescription opioid dependence).

North Coast Primary Health Network  identified that relapse prevention is often a neglected service area in the treatment of alcohol and other drug misuse, and is providing $556,000 of Commonwealth funding to address this local need.  

While GPs often treat patients recovering from alcohol and/or drug dependence, more complex, psychosocial factors that put people at risk of relapse often require specialist programs to address this, particularly in the first 12 months following treatment.

The Relapse Prevention Aftercare Service’s expert team develop personalised plans that are designed to empower people to find lasting recovery. Individualised support includes:

The funding was announced in Lismore and Page MP Kevin Hogan said it was part of a total Australian Government investment of around $574million from July 2016 to July 2020 to deliver drug and alcohol treatment services across the country.

“We are committed to reducing the, often devastating, impact of drug and alcohol misuse on individuals, their families and communities. I’m pleased to see funding being provided for these types of local services that are addressing the real, day-to-day issues for people at risk of relapse,” Mr Hogan said.

NCPHN’s Chief Executive Ms Julie Sturgess said the new service was a welcome support for people on the North Coast in their ongoing journey to recovery.

“People are at especially at risk of relapse within the first year of treatment and The Buttery’s program will provide much needed coordinated care during this time. We anticipate that at least ninety people and their families will benefit from the Relapse Prevention Aftercare Service.”

The Buttery’s CEO Ms Leone Crayden said the service provided support for people aged 18 to 65 being managed by their GP or those who had been discharged from inpatient treatment and/or rehab services.

“Our service is effective because it partners with other services to advocate for and support our clients’ needs. It connects people with social, housing, legal, education and employment services to provide more stability in their lives and reduce the risk of relapse.

“Recovery focuses on helping clients to understand their own strengths and needs, engaging in an active life, having a positive sense of self and establishing meaning and purpose in life,” said Ms Crayden.

The service is free, confidential, and available across the Tweed, Byron, Lismore, Ballina, Kyogle, Richmond Valley, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Bellingen, Kempsey, Nambucca and Port Macquarie-Hastings Local Government Areas.

Access to the service can be via local health and support workers, or individuals can contact the service directly on (02) 6687 1658.