Aftercare

Aftercare is a non-residential service that may include peer support, relapse prevention counselling, therapeutic activities and one to one counselling. Aftercare support for persons who have successfully completed rehabilitation has a formal structure and forms part of a care plan. It operates at set times, has a clear start and finish and usually involves attending aftercare groups or regular appointments. Aftercare may also be informal, where a nominated person is contacted as required or the person attends a drop-in service. Some services will facilitate an aftercare plan to ensure that the person has emotional support and ways of re-integrating with the community through hobbies, networks, training or employment. It also includes a plan for re-engagement with services in the case of a relapse. Some services also offer supported accommodation for those who are homeless after completing residential drug treatment.