Editorial
I’ve had it with the system. I see so many people falling through the net. In THOMAS we make no excuses for taking the opportunity to support people trapped by the bureaucracy and red tape. There is a significant strategic motto from the World of Disney “the way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” There is too much talking and not enough doing.
“Edges” has had a long summer holiday. It started last July, but we are back with a passion and energy to support our organisation as it tackles substance misuse and works to reduce re-offending. Stepping out of the shadows might lose us old friends, but the time has come for a pragmatic approach, promoting innovation and change.
It could be argued what is a Roman Catholic Priest doing making such bold statements. However, I firmly believe that some one needs to take a stand and hold people accountable for some of the poor strategic decisions that are being made.
At the same time I acknowledge the outstanding work that is taking place within the criminal justice & drug treatment sectors and there is no doubting the sincerity, professionalism and commitment of my colleagues in the public sector. Yet more needs to be done to help substance misusers “holistically” develop their potential.
In THOMAS we promote a total abstinence life, free from drugs & alcohol. We have just opened our new Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation Unit at Witton Bank. In this edition of Edges we share the stories of our service users and continue to give a voice to those excluded from society.
To all our friends throughout the UK and in different parts of the world – it’s good to be back. I look forward to communicating with you and please continue to support our work.
Father Jim McCartney
Chief Executive
