• The Charles Sturt University Rural Health Research Institute is calling for participants for the Family Empowerment Program
• The program provides free professional support for family members or friends who are worried about a loved one’s alcohol or other drug use
• It is offered to eligible people in rural NSW communities

The Charles Sturt University Rural Health Research Institute (the Institute) is calling for participants for the Family Empowerment Program that supports individuals in relation to someone else’s drug or alcohol problems.

The program provides free support with trained clinicians in substance use and is available online through a selection of health clinics across rural NSW.

The Institute is rolling out the program in collaboration with experienced rural psychologists, social workers, and counsellors, through funding provided by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing.

Charles Sturt Rural Health Research Institute Associate Professor Julaine Allan said there is a lack of easily accessible evidence-based programs in Australia to support individuals with a loved-one struggling with drug or alcohol use.

“The Family Empowerment Program is a practical, evidence-based approach involving communication, planning, and problem-solving aimed at enhancing the well-being of family members and encouraging their relative to seek drug or alcohol treatment,” Professor Allan said.       

“The program has shown success in other countries, and our goal is to evaluate its effectiveness for rural Australians.”

Professor Allan said the Institute would focus on rural communities across Australia and interested participants should contact the Institute to speak with one of the researchers to determine eligibility.

“Individuals residing in rural Australia who have a loved-one who are using alcohol or other drugs may qualify for participation in the program,” she said.

“If eligible, participants will complete a brief survey and then be connected with one of our practitioners.”

Once deemed eligible, participants will receive six free one-hour sessions with a trained counsellor.

For further information or to register for the Family Empowerment Program call 0484 368 279 or fill out an online form available here .

ENDS