We try to follow best practice in all that we do. We also consult widely with current and former drug users, those working in addiction services, policy-makers and strategists to make sure that our services meet the needs of recovering drug users.

Key aspects of the Soilse programme are rooted in formal and informal research. This is outlined below. If you would like to find out more about this research, you'll find the references at the end of the page.

Vocational rehabilitation - In 1991, government policy shifted to give greater emphasis to vocational rehabilitation (Government Strategy to Prevent Drug Misuse, May 1991). Soilse was established in 1992.

In 1992, the Horizon Operational Guidelines stated that "no specialist service for vocational rehabilitation of persons with drug dependency exists in Ireland at present... Drug addicts genuinely motivated to rehabilitate themselves vocationally have difficulty in finding courses which meet their social as well as occupational needs". Soilse was set up to specifically meet drug users' social and occupational needs.

Holistic response - Soilse was set up following widespread consultation with drug users, addiction workers, policy-makers and strategists. This consultation identified the need for:

• a holistic response spanning health, social, financial, legal, accommodation and vocational issues;
• staff competence in factors associated with addiction and social exclusion;
• personal care planning;an adult education approach to programme delivery

Each of these points was incorporated into the Soilse programme and approach.

Continuum of care - In 1994, researchers at the Centre for Adult and Community Education, NUI Maynooth evaluated Soilse using the CIPP model (context, input, process, product)They also sought the views of participants on the effectiveness of the programme.

The evaluation endorsed the continuum approach: 1) foundation - basic skills; 2) developmental - capacity building; 3) vocational guidance - career pathway.

As a result of this evaluation, Soilse was mainstreamed.

Impact of social exclusion - Research conducted by the Centre for Adult and Community Education, NUI Maynooth in 1996, and funded by the European Social Fund's Leonardo programme, addressed vocational aptitudes and capabilities of those on methadone clinics, with specific reference to participants in Soilse. It found that social disadvantage adversely affected career potential and that a lack of formal development made people more likely to be involved with drugs.

Other Research

References