A new framework launched today aims to improve access to drug treatment in the ACT through inclusive and timely support that is led by workers with lived and living experience.
Developed by the Canberra Alliance for Harm Minimisation and Advocacy (CAHMA) and funded by the ACT Government, the Peer Treatment Support Service (PTSS) Model of Care sets a new benchmark for integrated, trauma-informed, and peer-led approaches to health and wellbeing.
This Model of Care describes how CAHMA provides accessible support for people who are marginalised, providing them with the tools to take control of their health and wellbeing, and to navigate the service system.
The PTSS Model of Care also serves as a resource for the broader sector, providing practical guidance for organisations seeking to employ peer workers ethically and effectively and set a standard for person-centred care.
The ACT Government supported the development of the PTSS under the Drug Strategy Action Plan, reflecting an ongoing commitment to prioritising peer workforce development and lived and living experience in service delivery.
"This model provides a strong foundation for peer workforce development in the ACT and recognises that people with lived and living experience of drug use can transform our understanding of the needs in our community and how we can better deliver person-centred care," Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said.
"CAHMA's peer-led approach challenges stigma. Peer workers use their lived and living experience and group identity to inform their work, disassemble stereotypes and connect with their clients. Peer Treatment Support workers have walked the same path as the people they support. They bring their strength of lived and living experience as a professional asset and use that shared experience to deliver care and support that truly meets people's needs.
"I congratulate and acknowledge the CAHMA team, volunteers, and peer workers who have used their knowledge and experience to create this framework. Your dedication to our community is extraordinary."
Quotes attributable to Chris Gough, Executive Director of Canberra Alliance for Harm Minimisation and Advocacy:
"The Peer Treatment Support Model of Care is a world first peer support and case management framework that draws on diverse lived experience of real people who have engaged with real services. We describe how to work one on one with service users in a way that promotes dignity, autonomy and empowerment and builds social capital and real-life solutions to your healthcare goals.
"The PTSS Model of Care provides a framework for helping people to plan and achieve their AOD and other healthcare goals. Whether you want to stop using drugs, or reduce the harms of using drugs and gain control of your health and wellbeing, the PTSS provides one-on-one support to help people achieve their best possible life.
"The goal of the service is to empower people to gain control of their health and wellbeing and gather around them a support network that builds their social capital. It blends the heavy lifting and goal-based support elements of case management with the role modelling, hope and compassion of peer support to create a truly person-centred model of care.
"The PTSS framework shows just what can be achieved with an inclusive approach and a wide range of peer workers with different lived experience. People who have been through the challenges of drug treatment are best placed to help others achieve their goals and this model of care enables peer workers to provide that hope, help and inspiration to others."
