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Evaluation of the independence initiative 1-2-1 detoxification programme pilot
Claire Shaw, Researcher, Centre for Public Health, LIverpool John Moores University
Abstract
The 1-2-1 Detox at Independence Initiative (II) is a unique service based on a model of community detoxification which aims to provide a 'safe home' environment where clients undergo opiate detoxification with one-on-one 24 hour support. This presentation will include client testimony via a short film, quantitative and qualitative data relating to outcomes of effectiveness and recommendations for the development of future service delivery. The independent evaluation was undertaken by Centre for Public Health at Liverpool John Moores University.
Each client who attended the 1-2-1 Detox between March and December 2008 was interviewed three times, (1) pre-detox, (2) post-detox and (3) follow-up (approximately one month after detox). Stage relevant semi-structured interview guides (consisting of qualitative and quantitative questions and validated scales) were developed and administered to clients.
There were 15 clients (12 male, 2 female, mean age 38.95) and 19 episodes of treatment during the 10 month pilot. Twelve clients (80%) completed follow-up interviews. Clients were undergoing detoxification from a variety of opiate based substances (heroin, methadone and Subutex). All clients were successfully discharged from the detoxification in a care planned way.
The findings from the evaluation indicate that the one-to-one element was favoured over group detoxification, the detoxification setting was fit-for-purpose, 'homely' and comfortable, and Subutex was considered a suitable substitute medication. Analysis of client's quality of life post-detoxification showed significantly reduced levels of drug use, increased motivation to work and re-integrate into society, and improved relationships with families.
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Biography
Claire Shaw is a Researcher at the Centre for Public Health, Liverpool John Moores University. Claire started her career in research in 2003 as a student with the Institute for Child Care Research (ICCR) at Queens University Belfast working on the Belfast Youth Development Study. Since then Claire has worked on various substance use studies in Northern Ireland and as a statistician with the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA).
In her current role Claire is a member of the Project Management and Research team at the Centre for Public Health where she leads research and evaluation projects. She is also in the process of completing her MSc in Drug Use and Addiction.
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