Drug and alcohol treatment package hailed as major progress

19 October 2011

Media Release – for immediate release

Platform hails Government’s $10m drug and alcohol treatment package as major progress

Platform, the national network of mental health and addiction NGOs, has hailed today’s Government announcement of an additional $10m for alcohol and drug treatment as a major step forward.

Platform chief executive Marion Blake said that the investment package to reduce harm from alcohol and drug abuse was an outstanding initiative.

“This significant investment will absolutely begin to address some of the most serious and damaging issues within our communities,” said Ms Blake.

“It demonstrates that the Government is listening to the people who work at the front line and who have been talking about the hugely damaging impact that drug and alcohol abuse has on the lives of individuals and families across our communities.

“The focus on training for front line staff, the early intervention initiatives including nationally consistent enhanced services for youth and the five year Drug Court pilot are all pragmatic and far-sighted and will provide a vital boost for community organisations throughout New Zealand.”

About Platform
Platform provides a contact point for nationwide feedback on issues that relate to mental health and addiction NGOs. It aims to give voice to matters that impact on community organisations’ ability to provide services and to promote the role of New Zealand’s health and disability community sector nationally and internationally.

ENDS

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