Awareness Raising

Awareness raising has been an important activity under the prevention pillar of both the National and Regional Drugs Strategies.  The focus of prevention is on promoting a greater awareness and understanding of the dangers of problem drug use throughout society.  It seeks to improve the knowledge people have of the consequences of problem drug use and also to delay the onset of first use.  Another consideration is raising awareness amognst the public of the services available and of the importance of seeking help and support as soon as possible.  The WRDATF undertakes a wide variety of awareness programes throughout the year, some examples are listed below.

Regional Awareness Week ​The Regional Drug and Alcohol Awareness Week runs every year, usually during the second week of November.  Typically there are a wide variety of seminars, educational events and activities taking place which seek to highlight current issues. Some of the objectives of the week are: To increase awareness of the needs of families affected by substance use; To highlight the supports available in the region. To encourage and support local communities and services to engage in drug and alcohol issues and promote harm reduction. To create an opportunity for individuals to reflect on their own drug and alcohol use.
Drug-Related Intimidation Training ​This programme is delivered by the WRDATF Family Support Worker with the support of An Garda Síochána. It is designed is to respond to the needs of drug users and family members who are experiencing drug related intimidation and includes:  Practical safety information Advice in relation to particular threats or intimidation Information on appropriate drug support services Information on the process of formal complaints
Regional and local events and seminars The WRDATF deliver a sustained range of awareness campaigns throughout the year in a variety of community, sports and educatonal settings.  This is in addition to the structured and skills-based training programme that is delivered through the year and advertised in the training calendar. Examples include: Mental Health Network presentations Presentations to GAA and other sports clubs Parents sessions in community and school settings Upskilling sessions for agencies and workers