The Blue Cross provides healthcare and wellbeing support through its prevention, treatment, and aftercare services for dependent persons and their families. However, it is not simply a health service provider; it is an organisation of committed individuals who are concerned with the welfare, wellbeing and rehabilitation of people affected by dependence.

Blue Cross activities may vary depending on the context, needs, and resources available. Overall they are characterised by a focus on an integrated and holistic approach that includes not only medical and psychological needs of the person, but spiritual and relational ones as well.

Blue Cross Youth Club, Jan Jonker High-school, Namibia. ©Blue Cross Namibia

At an individual and community level the Blue Cross is a help to those in need and crisis. It is a source of information and education. It is a supporter, counsellor, and encourager. It is a provider of practical help and developer of useful skills. It is an aid to recovery.

At a national and international level the Blue Cross is an advocate for good practice and better policy in the field of alcohol and drug addiction. It is a project and funding organisation. It helps to build skills and to enable projects that will make a difference. It is a network and coordinator.