Drugs services - life experiences

Case study one:

AB self referred to Integrate having had no contact with any drug agencies before.  AB was using heroin on a daily basis and on the verge of loosing his job.  His relationship with his parents was very fraught.

With a team member's support and input a meeting was arranged with both his GP and the CDPS.  After a wait of approximately six weeks during which AB got regular support from Integrate, AB secured a methadone prescription.  AB gradually reduced his prescription and eventually became drug free.  He also accessed an ongoing counselling service.

To date AB has been drug free for two months.  His job is secure and his relationship with his parents is good.  His financial situation and health shows a clear improvement.  Support from Integrate continues on a much lesser basis to ensure this situation continues. 

Case study two:

CD has a 10 year history of IV heroin use and whilst having a methadone prescription for the last 5 years has continued to top-up with heroin.  CD has had contact with multiple services in the past, bu thas never managed to become drug free or maintina stability for more than one month.

Following a self referral to Integrate, CD and his support worker formulated an action plan which included both short and longer term goals.  To date CD has not used heroin for 4 months and after a short stay in the Links project has managed to half his methadone prescription.

With Integrate's support, CD is now a volunteer for a local hospice where he undertakes gardening.  CD has also enrolled for night classes in computing and cookery.

CD's relationship with his ex-partner has also improved and he now has regular access to his son.

CD's long term plan is to eventually return to the Links and detoxify from his remaining methadone and return to full time education in an attempt to gain skills which will allow him to enter full time employment.