The Pathways outreach program is a partnership between Directions Health Services and the Noffs Foundation and will come to Young on a fortnightly basis.

The program is open to people of all ages that have been impacted by their use or someone else’s use of methamphetamine (Ice) in the Murrumbidgee Region. 

Chair of the Young CDAT group Heather Ritchie said the announcement was “fantastic news for Young."

“Although they may only be visiting on a fortnightly basis the service can also be accessed by phone for any immediate or urgent needs," she said.

"People with a problem can talk to them directly or you can talk to them on behalf of a friend or family member.

“The program can also receive referrals from doctors and other health agencies”

Ms Ritchie said the Pathways treatment and support services are provided free in a respectful and non-judgemental manner. 

"Each person is treated individually depending on where they may be up to in their recovery stage," she said. 

"The service is also available to friends and family who have been impacted by substance use.

"Each person will undertake an initial assessment to identify their needs and an individual plan developed to achieve their goals."

Mrs Ritchie said the Hilltops CDAT was still looking to broaden its focus to include all substance abuse problems, not just Ice. 

“While Ice was our main focus last year, we would now like to include all alcohol and drug addictions as there can be just as many problems that people may need help with," she said.

"We will not ignore Ice as a local issue and we will continue to monitor the local situation.”

Pathways can be contacted via telephone on (02) 69717 330 or via email on pathwaysm@directionshealth.com