New Substance Recovery Program Aimed at 2SLGBTQ+ Community
1-12-2022
Windsor Regional Hospital is proud to help promote a new substance abuse program coordinated by local healthcare partners that cater to the needs of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Thanks to a partnership between the Windsor Team Care Centre, Family Services Windsor-Essex, and the Windsor Pride Community, the new program will provide participants with a safe and inclusive space to receive help with their recovery.
Members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community face a number of unique challenges that may contribute to a higher rate of addiction. The current One Team Recovery (OTR) program is a community-based initiative for those using substances who are ready to begin the road to recovery - the new program will use the same model, but with a specific focus on the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
“We’re excited to offer OTR as a dedicated program for the 2SLGBTQ+ community where participants can feel safe to have their recovery incorporate a focus on their unique challenges and needs,” explains Windsor Family Health Team Executive Director Margo Reilly. “The evidence tells us this will lead to better outcomes for their recovery.”
Research suggests members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community use alcohol, tobacco, and other substances at a rate of two to four times higher than heterosexual people. The same research also found the 2SLGBTQ+ population has unique needs when dealing with addictions and would benefit from dedicated services.
“People who identify within the 2SLGBTQ+ community often face social stigma, discrimination, and unique challenges specific to our community. These factors contribute to a high rate of substance use within our community, and the need for a dedicated response for the 2SLGBTQ+ population here in Windsor-Essex,” says Windsor Pride Community President Colm Holmes. “Windsor Pride is thrilled to be a part of the solution moving forward.”
The new program is slated to launch on January 10, 2023 and will run twice a week. Participants who complete the program will receive a certificate of completion.
For more information head to windsortcc.ca.