 (T.I.P) Thomas Inclusion Project started in July
2002. We are based at Strawberry Bank, we have four members of staff available,
we communicate with up to 30- 40 people a week who are struggling with their
substance misuse and other issues. The group meets daily for support and the
chance to discuss their lifestyles, identify skills and their qualities. The
group consists of a variety ofdifferent age groups; some come to us for advice
or information regarding their circumstances. When they first come to us they
are made to feel welcome and safe, all we ask of them is that they respect us
and the time they are with us they do not use drugs. Hospitality and leisure is what we’re trying to engage them in. Every Thursday we have a leisure day the group decides football, pool, cinema or even a walk in the countryside to allow them time out from their chaotic lifestyles. We are linking up with relevant agencies in the community to offer our clients the opportunity to learn basic skills such as I.T in order to help their growth and development. We encourage group workings on issues involving addiction to help raise awareness for the client as well as the project workers. The five months (T.I.P) has been operating we have seen a sudden rise in the numbers of people with drug problems, alcohol, depression and loneliness who come for a hot drink and a friendly chat. The (T.I.P) group is working towards accomplishing a task, and as a group we have decided to hold a Multi Cultural, Candle lit vigil/ Christmas Party that will be held in the Blackburn Town Centre and led by our client group to encourage social inclusion and raise awareness of addiction/homelessness. A Certificate of Achievement, highlighting their levels of commitment, motivation, teamwork, communication skills and participation will acknowledge their inclusion in the process. Showing them and others that even though they have addiction problems they are still capable, when given real opportunities and chances to use them; often hidden or unacknowledged skills and qualities which can only be beneficial to their opinion of themselves and their lifestyles enabling the possibilities and choices open to their recovery; moving from passive to active participants in the community. |
