A person-centred approach to care

A core part of the support provided by St Vincent de Paul Society NSW’s health services is addressing alcohol and other drugs usage.

Research from UNSW’s Drug Policy Modelling Program shows that more than 100,000 people in NSW who want and are suitable for treatment are unable to access care, highlighting the need for support to be available when and where people need it.

Our services are tailored to meet people at various stages of support, from early intervention to crisis and recovery. These services include detoxification and rehabilitation, residential facilities, on-site day programs, and outreach programs.

One of the most impactful and farthest-reaching programs delivered by Vinnies NSW is the Continuing Coordinated Care Program – commonly known as CCCP.

CCCP aims to assist people through intensive case management to address their alcohol and other drugs usage in a supportive and non-judgemental environment. Participants voluntarily take part in the program and receive support from specialist staff that is tailored to their individual needs.

“It’s a person-centred model, so first and foremost it’s about reducing harm,” says Helen Williams, Manager of CCCP at St Vincent de Paul Society NSW. 

With many people unable to access residential rehabilitation services due to lengthy wait times and geographical barriers, the reach of CCCP allows people to receive support who would otherwise fall through the cracks. 

Another key feature of CCCP is its holistic approach which offers support beyond reducing substance use by supporting people with their needs around housing, health, income, education, employment, and family connections.

“We do a comprehensive assessment and case plan with each client that’s person-centred and based on where they’re at and what they need.”

Vinnies NSW delivers CCCP in partnership with the NSW Ministry of Health, supporting 521 people throughout the state during the last financial year.

David’s story 

The life David and his wife, Angela, had with their three daughters was forever changed when Angela was diagnosed with early onset dementia and Parkinsons.

With Angela being responsible for managing the family’s finances, the upheaval caused by her diagnosis led to rental arrears building up, eventually resulting in homelessness.

The time between Angela’s diagnosis and passing was quick. The family was devastated at the loss of their wife and mother. David, in his grief, turned to drinking alcohol and smoking cannabis daily to cope.

At the lowest point, David’s daughters were removed from his care after he was hospitalised for attempting to take his life.

David sought treatment at a residential rehabilitation service and upon being discharged, connected with the Continuing Coordinated Care Program.

Through engagement with CCCP, David was determined to abstain from using alcohol and other drugs and worked towards restoring care of his children. He developed strategies to prevent relapse, accessed mental health support, sought referrals for financial counselling, peer support and grief counselling, and prepared for reunification with his daughters.

David has shown resilience following the most difficult period of his life. He’s currently working and attending a behaviour change program. He attends regular appointments with a drug and alcohol counsellor and has the confidence to reach out for support.

Crucially, he’s remained in contact with his children. He now has his 12-year-old daughter in his care and hopes to regain custody of his other daughters.