When entering the program, a staff member will provide you with information about WHOS, the program and expectations. Also, you will be assigned a peer resident to support you at all times during your first days in the program.
You will be required to participate in the various groups, activities and meetings as per the program schedule.
WHOS offers a wide range of activities within the therapeutic model of care. This includes group work, counselling support and education covering topics such as:
- alcohol and other drug addiction education including drug overdose and relapse prevention
- social and communication skills, assertiveness skills and self esteem building
- community unity & peer feedback sessions
- harm reduction including education on HIV/Hep C as well as CPR
- skills based education (e.g. communications skills, conflict resolution & computer literacy)
Other activities:
- participation in external recovery self help support networks
- assistance with legal and welfare services
- regular structured exercise (e.g. volleyball, offsite training sessions, swimming, walks)
- wellness training (e.g. yoga, meditation and tai chi)
In addition there are a wide range of community based social gatherings and shared job functions which help to build a sense of collaboration and support.
Preparations prior to admission
You will need:
- centrelink benefit reference number (CRN). If new to Centrelink benefits, please bring 3 forms of ID
- medicare card – if lost we can support you with contacting Medicare to obtain your details
What to bring with you
- adequate casual clothing if possible (maximum of 2 bags/suitcases)
- closed toe shoes and thongs (for bathroom areas ) if possible
- prescriptions if on medication
- reading and writing material
- enough money to purchase personal items (e.g. phone calls, soft drinks, snacks, etc.). If you are on medications, bring a supply of your medications in its original containers
- Optional: items such as photos and certain other personal effects. However, space is limited and security of your personal items (e.g. iPod, etc.) are at your own risk unless locked in staff security areas.
What NOT to bring
- valuables (e.g. Jewellery, mobile phones)
- knives or items that could be used as weapons
- drugs or drug use paraphernalia
What we expect from you
- a voluntary acknowledgement from you that you feel there is a need for change
- detox arrangements will need to be made or negotiated with staff prior to admission
- minimum age is 18 years
- court/legal business needs to be deferred for the first six weeks of the program, we may be able to assist with deferment
- you agree to abide by the program rules and guidelines (no alcohol or other drugs , no violence, no stealing, no sexual activity with other residents)
- if you have a special medical condition that needs medical services or supervision, please contact us to see whether we have the resources to meet your needs
WHOS acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of this country and its waters. We wish to pay our respects to Elders past and present and this to all Aboriginal people seeing this message.
We Help Ourselves celebrates diversity and is committed to providing inclusive services. We offer support to all people without judgment or discrimination.