More Barbadians certified in drug treatment, prevention

Following the conclusion of an initiative which aims to optimise the level of drug prevention, treatment and rehab services through the training and certification of human resources, fifty-two Barbadians are now certified. 

 

Government’s agreement to the Programme for Drug and Violence Prevention, Treatment and Rehabilitation (PROCCER) initiative saw its birth in Barbados in 2011. During a graduation ceremony on Wednesday, Manager of the National Council on Substance Abuse (NCSA), Betty Hunte congratulated the graduands but first stated, “I am happy that this programme is being introduced almost at the same time that Government has introduced legislation to ensure that the settings in which treatment and rehab occur, are in line with industry acceptable standards.” 

 

In delivering her feature address, Hunte pointed out that the misuse of drugs has become a real social problem many implications. However, she noted, “Barbados’ approach to drugs remains clear; we must ensure that law enforcement is adequately equipped to protect society by stopping the supply and capping the crime that is associated with the drug trade, but at the same time, we must never give up in our efforts to prevent drug misuse in the first place.” 

 

Looking towards collaborative effort, Hunte stated that it is multi-agency collaboration which contributed to the success of PROCCER as it helps everyone to see just how wide-spread substance abuse is. Moreover, she explained that it is heartening to see that institutional infrastructure is growing given the way NCSA’s professionals working with young people, remain committed to acquiring specific and up-to-date knowledge and skills in mental health promotion and drug reduction to tackle the drug abuse problem effectively. 

 

Out of this comes a variety of resources and in this vain, the newest graduates of the programme have studied a wide range of disciplines which, according to Hunte, suggests that they are ready to give their services where they are needed but most importantly opening up these services to individuals who need them. 

 

Furthermore, Hunte took the opportunity to highlight the recently approved five-year Continued from Page 12 strategy framework within which the sustained national response will be coordinated through the NCSA. 

 

“We will be highlighting key aspects of this strategy very soon and it is my expectation that all agencies, institutions, communities and individuals will embrace and participate in this effort,” she said.

 

On a more congratulatory note, she commended the graduates for their achievements and all others involved especially since Barbados is the first nation in the OAS and Latin America to receive 100 per cent passes in the prevention component of the 

programme.