Prime Minister Robert Abela visited the Santa Marija Community where a rehabilitation programme is being carried out to offer assistance to those facing the problem of substance addiction including drugs and alcohol.
Together with the Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights, Michael Falzon, and the Chief Executive of the Foundation for Social Welfare Services (FSWS), Alfred Grixti, the Prime Minister acknowledged the ongoing commitment of the Sedqa Agency within the FSWS as this programme not only offers support for people to overcome their addiction, but also helps them reintegrate into society and find the necessary help to start a new life.
During his visit, the Prime Minister had the opportunity to meet with the members of the residence and see first-hand how this program, which is built on the concept of a therapeutic community, works. The Prime Minister visited the building where the residents live, where he was able to see the way in which this residence is run with the participation of each resident. This visit was followed by a meeting with the people living in this community, where they spoke about the experiences they are going through on their journey towards rehabilitation.
The Prime Minister noted the investment by FSWS in rehabilitation services that offer long-term solutions for those seeking a change in their lives. “The policy of this government has always been to help every member of society have the help, equal chance and all the opportunities to succeed. This community is a testament to this. We are working to give hope to everyone who is facing challenges related to drug addiction. As a Government we are committed to continuing to strengthen these programs so that more people are given the opportunity to build a better future.”
The Santa Marija Community is designed around three residential phases and an aftercare phase, which provides a structure for residents to be guided throughout their journey. Throughout the program, residents are provided with psychological and therapeutic support as well as training sessions and educational activities to build new skills and strengthen their independence.
The residents who spoke to the Prime Minister told stories of challenge and perseverance, and how the Santa Marija Community program offered them the hope and tools needed to restart a healthy life while integrating into society in the best possible way.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the dedicated work of the professionals who run this centre and said that this is an example of how social services can be catalysts for positive change in people’s lives. “This is an investment in people’s lives, an investment in a more inclusive and just society, where everyone is given a second chance.”
During this visit, the Prime Minister also met with patients currently at the SMIPU. The Substance Misuse Inpatient Unit, also known as Dar l-Impenn, is the only medical facility in Malta that offers observation and stabilisation for people struggling with substance addiction.
This facility, which forms part of the Sedqa Agency within the FSWS, accommodates up to seven people who are referred by addiction specialists. The main aim of Dar l-Impenn is to offer short-term intensive medical care of between seven and ten days under the supervision of health professionals. Despite the limited period of treatment, this facility provides an important opportunity for individuals to begin their journey towards recovery and receive the necessary help to overcome their addiction.
Photo (OPM-DOI)
