SLNIW - Sustainable Learning Networks in Ireland and Wales

Rhoserchan is an independent Charity set up in 1987 in order to provide residential rehabilitation for people wanting to stop using alcohol and drugs and start a new addiction-free life.

Rhoserchan is registered as a residential care home for younger adults. The charity is a national resource, providing a service not found in the statutory system.

In July 2006, with the help of Objective 1 funding, Rhoserchan moved to bigger premises and enlarged its service to include Second Stage residential treatment.

With this expansion of the business and enlargement of the programme, it became necessary to review staff provision and several new positions were created. At present Rhoserchan employs 18 people and is committed to ensuring that all its staff have the necessary skills and training to fulfil their responsibilities. Rhoserchan re-attained the Investors in People Award in 2009, along with the Leadership in Management award. Rhoserchan is a member of the European Association of Treatment Agencies (EATA) and all members of staff are expected to abide by the Professional Code of Ethics of the Federation of Drug and Alcohol Professionals (FDAP).

As well as having chronic addiction problems, the majority of our clients have experienced childhood abuse, trauma, prison sentences, homelessness, breakup of family relationships and exclusion from society. Our members of staff need certain qualities to be able to work safely with this client group.

Clients need to be restored to physical health, including cognitive function; they need to engage in counselling to address psychological issues; and they need to learn new social skills which will allow them to re-integrate into society.