The National Council on Substance Abuse (NCSA) is seeking to create greater awareness about the effects of illegal drugs, as it hosts activities under the theme: Taking Charge of Change, to mark Drug Awareness Month 2016.
During the month, a number of agencies involved in the fight against illegal drugs will join the NCSA to host activities aimed at generating a greater awareness and bringing about change.
On Wednesday, January 13, the Barbados Association of Guidance Counsellors will host a career showcase at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill Campus, beginning at 9:30 a.m.
The following day, Thursday, January 14, officials at Verdun House will host a workshop entitled: Workplace Addiction and Mental Health: An Employer???s Response, from 9:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
Officials from Verdun House will also examine the impact of drugs on families on Friday, January 15, when they host another workshop entitled: Families ??? Healing through the Pain and Addiction, also from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Both workshops will be held at Verdun House, Pool Land, St. John.
On Tuesday, January 19, the UWI will host a Medical Sciences Fair at the Cave Hill Campus for students from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. During the fair, there will be presentations on alcohol use and a simulation conducted by staff of the NCSA.
Students will also be informed about the services of the NCSA, and where they can go to get help, while also being encouraged to be a part of the volunteer programme.
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, January 20, the NCSA will host an open day for secondary school students at its headquarters at the Corner of 1st Avenue Belleville and Pine Road, St. Michael, beginning at 9:00 a.m.
These sessions, which include a simulation, are expected to teach students about the harmful effects of alcohol and marijuana and the dangers associated with drug use and abuse.
On Wednesday, January 27, participants in the PROCCER (Spanish acronym for Training and Certification Programme on Drug and Violence, Prevention, Treatment and Rehabilitation), will graduate during a ceremony at the Prince Cave Hall, District ???A??? Police Station, Station Hill, St. Michael, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
The following day, Thursday, January 28, women will take centre stage during a seminar entitled: Women and Addiction. It will be held at the recently-opened drug rehabilitation facility for women, Marina House, in Newcastle, St. John, from 9:30 a.m. to noon.
Staff at the NCSA will take time out to interact with their partners on Friday, January 29, during their annual staff fun day at the Folkestone Park and Marine Reserve, Holetown, St. James, from 8:30 a.m.
julia.rawlins-bentham@barbados.gov.bb