A NEW suite of resources developed with members of the Traveller community across Limerick, Clare, and North Tipperary raises awareness on substance use and highlights the family support services available to those whose loved ones are struggling with addiction.
An initiative of the Traveller Regional Drug and Alcohol Network (TRDAN), the new campaign was launched at the South Court Hotel in Limerick and brings together the region’s Primary Healthcare for Traveller Projects (PHCTPs), the HSE Mid West Social Inclusion Service, the Mid West Regional Drugs and Alcohol Forum (MWRDAF), and a range of addiction and family support services.
There are five HSE-funded Primary Healthcare for Traveller Projects operating across the Mid West, aligned to community development organisations across the three counties – Clare Local Development Company, North Tipperary Development Company, Ballyhoura Development, West Limerick Resources, and Limerick Social Services Council.
Traveller Community Health Workers (TCHWs) are at the heart of the projects. They act as peer workers who bridge the gap between mainstream health services and their community, of which there is an estimated population of over 5,000 people and over 1,000 family units across the three counties. Traveller Community Health Workers conduct outreach, health education, and advocacy.
A new video and printed resources on substance use and family supports have been developed with the aim of producing accessible and culturally relevant information and materials.
Two leaflets have been produced: one on tablets and the potential risks; and the other on family support services. A series of ‘Give It Up’ videos have been revised and updated to encourage open conversations around substance use and recovery within Traveller communities.
Originally launched back in 2012, the videos have been updated for use on social media platforms. All of the voices featured are members of the Travelling community.