RAPHA PROJECT (Birmingham)
Drug and alcohol misuse and the diverse problems associated with this are very much a focus in society today. A Home Office study published last year said : "Drug use appears to be part of the lifestyle of a large proportion of arrests ….. the evidence suggests that a reduction in the use of the most addictive and expensive form of drug use would lead to a significant reduction in income generating crime". Treatment in terms of rehabilitation is therefore seen as a very positive step in the right direction and is encouraged in all the local and national anti drugs strategies.
Adullam has had the foresight to rise to this challenge in a unique and innovative way through the setting up of the Rapha Project in Kings' Heath, Birmingham. Rapha, meaning 'total healing' in Hebrew, focuses on rehabilitation within the community through a structured day program. The aims and objectives are for clients to achieve and maintain an effective drug free lifestyle whilst still in the community. This is underpinned by group teachings and individual counselling concentrating on five main areas that include the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and relationship realm. Lifeskills and personal development is included in the 20 week program.
Adullam, who manage the project, worked closely with Birmingham Social Services (substance misuse team) in setting up Rapha which is now entering it's 12th week of operation. Building relationship and trust with the clients is of paramount importance. The need to support independent decision making through the encouragement of 'worthy choices' is seen by the clients as a valued aspect of the program. Still in it's infancy, Rapha has so far supported seven clients in different stages of recovery.
Feedback from both participating clients and members of multi-disciplinary teams has been positive with further liaison planned with interested members of the community. It is a good program offered by committed staff who are reinforced in their belief that unless "The Lord builds the house the labourers work in vain".
The way forward as seen by management and staff is to consolidate the program and to continue to review its effectiveness over the next few months. It is then envisaged to build on the good foundation already laid with a view to improving this service for the benefit of the wider community such as supporting partners, concerned third parties and family members of participating clients.
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Rapha Project
