Around 50 people attended the launch of a community based rehabilitation centre at Hexham earlier this month.
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The Kwila centre is the brainchild of Dr David Outridge, a specialist in addiction medicine, and his wife Loraine, also a trained drug and alcohol practitioner.
"Kwila seeks to fill a gap in drug and alcohol treatment in Port Stephens and the wider Hunter area," said Dr Outridge, who received an OAM for his service to the community thorough his work at this year's Australia Day awards.
"It helps in providing engaging, pleasant and meaningful activities for addicts, such as vehicle repairs, metalwork, woodwork, art and sewing, along similar lines as a 'men's shed' but for those in substance-use recovery.
"The therapeutic benefit of rewarding activities in recovery is well supported by scientific evidence, however the translation of evidence into practice has been limited."
Dave and Lorraine's vision is to develop the centre to a capacity of 50 individuals per week, and through this pilot program prove that such centres can have a practical benefit.
"The longer-term vision, if successful, is to offer the day-recovery centre model to be replicated in other places."
The Kwila Centre, located on Old Maitland Road, is a charitable organisation supported primarily by donations and volunteers.
"We are seeking volunteers with various specialist skills to help staff staff Kwila five days per week."
For information email frysy4@gmail.com.
