Background

Bray Community Addiction Team (BCAT) was established in 2002 through the Bray Local Drugs Task Force (BLDTF)’s Action Plan. BCAT is located in two sides of Bray so as to serve the two communities most affected by the problems associated with drugs/alcohol misuse. BCAT is recommended for funding by the BLDATF, and funding is provided by the HSE and the Probation Service.

BCAT has evolved since inception and provides services to individuals, families and the wider community, who are experiencing drug/alcohol problems. BCAT views drug/alcohol problems from the bio-psychosocial perspective and provides services to people along the continuum of care from harm reduction services to drug free options. Specifically BCAT provides: Drop In with access to laundry/shower facilities and food; 5 day open access harm reduction/ needle exchange service; one-to-one support in the form of key working/case management for people with drug/alcohol problems in the community; key working and aftercare for people in prison and on release who have drug/alcohol problems. In addition BCAT also conducts addiction specific street outreach and various groups Interagency stabilisation, Aftercare, Bothar Nua, NVR and SMART Recovery. Family members are offered one to one support and CRAFT groups.

BCAT is managed by a voluntary Board of Directors and delivers its essential services through the employment of 15 staff and a number of volunteers.