Pubdate: Fri, 08 Jul 2005
Source: Maitland Mercury, The (Australia)
Copyright: 2005 Rural Press Ltd
Contact:  http://maitland.yourguide.com.au/home.asp
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1076
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/prison.htm (Incarceration)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/rehab.htm (Treatment)

AIMING TO BREAK DRUG ADDICTION IN PRISONS

A Hunter-based charity is campaigning to improve the way prisoners with 
addictions receive rehabilitation treatment in Australian jails.

DREAMS Eliminating Drug Dependency was established by Paterson couple Susan 
and Allan Forrester in 1997 as a support network and action group for 
parents of people with an illicit drug addiction.

It also provides support through a residential life-skills training 
facility for young women recovering from a drug dependency.

The registered charity is now funding research into effective addiction 
treatments for prisoners with drug, alcohol and gambling addictions.

The study is being conducted through the University of Newcastle's 
psychology department and involves research into international models of 
treatment and existing Australian policies and procedures.

A Rehabilitation in Custody survey has also been created to capture the 
attitudes and opinions of professionals in the field, as well as the 
general population, in relation to existing and required treatment methods 
in custody.

Copies of the survey can be obtained by emailing  
or writing to PO Box 365 Maitland, NSW 2320.

Mrs Forrester said she hopes the findings of the study will be used to 
create an effective model for the treatment of addiction within the 
Australian prison system.

There was also strong interest internationally in the study.

Mrs Forrester said drug, alcohol and gambling addictions were three major 
contributors to prisoners re-offending once they were released.

She said the research project had kicked off one month ago, with 
expectations a final report would be completed towards the end of the year. 
But she said help was needed to fund the study, with a charity screening of 
the Nicole Kidman film Bewitched.

The event is being held at Greater Union Glendale on July 11 from 6pm, with 
tickets costing $15, including a light supper.

For details contact the DREAMS office on 4938 5622.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom