The National Drug Commission has made much progress in the rehabilitation of both adults and youngsters who suffer from addiction.

Speaking to Hamilton Rotary, Dr. Lynda Price, NDC treatment coordinator, said an outpatient programme for young people having drug or alcohol abuse problems had been a good start.

Under the Bermuda Youth Counselling Services, 40 referrals had been made and 35 had been assessed and offered counselling with their families.

As a result, 50 percent reported an improvement in behaviour and performance at school, she said.

In addition, a Salvation Army Aftercare programme for outpatients has had 50 clients, with an estimated 40 percent remaining drug free. A residential scheme is also planned for the coming year.

"There is much more to be done, but...Bermuda as a result of the Royal Commission into the use and misuse of illicit drugs and alcohol, has been well ahead of our great neighbour to the west,'' she said.

Dr. Price said the NDC are working toward a long term treatment and rehabilitation goal, ensuring that both individuals and their families can reach a lasting recovery.

Progress had also been made in other strategic aims, including a code of ethics for those working in the rehabilitation sector, education and training for professionals and the creation of the Bermuda Addiction Certification Board to certify counsellors and specialists.

DRUGS DGS