story 2

This involves a man of forty years of age who came to Cardigan House on licence having served a sentence for robbery.

His initial assessment indicated a number of problems directly relating to his offending behavior. These included decision-making, basic skills, employment, accommodation, drugs and mental health.

He remained in Cardigan House ten months.

During that time he became drug free under the supervision of our Addiction Therapist. This was the first time for over twelve years. He had abused most drugs, but was mainly using heroin and cocaine. It took considerable hard work and commitment to achieve abstinence and there were a few lapses on the way. However his overall motivation was very good.

He completed a basic skills course and achieved a national qualification in literacy.

Regretfully, due to a serious injury to his knee, which required a period of hospitalisation, he was not able to secure employment.

He had excellent support form his family, which was not simply collusion, but had the ability to correct and encourage as required.

Although he had times of uncertainity, he did not require mental health intervention and made good progress.

He has been away from the hostel for over three months, has not offended and continues to make good progress.