CZECH REPUBLIC

	A Network of Treatment Services

Project Field	Aftercare, Treatment

Context	The Czech Republic ranks fourth in per capita alcohol consumption in Europe and highest worldwide in beer consumption. The country is known for its brewing tradition and drinking beer is very much part of normal social activities. Accordingly, alcohol dependence remains largely a taboo. Blue Cross Czech Republic operates in the Moravian-Silesian Region, which is a region hit by unemployement and where the percentage of dependent people is quite high.

Project	Care for alcohol dependent people and their families is a pioneer social service in the Czech Republic and Blue Cross the first organization providing treatment including aftercare services for persons suffering from dependence in the Moravian-Silesian Region. Under this project, Blue Cross Czech Republic is establishing a network of professional treatment / aftercare services that will complement the existing detoxification offer of local hospitals and clinics. The lack of aftercare services is a major factor conducting to frequent relapses of patients. Within a timeframe of three years Blue Cross Czech Republic will establish four counseling centers in different locations. These centers will provide treatment and referral services for people suffering from dependence. A network of Blue Cross self-help groups (aftercare) linked to each of the centers will complement the service offer and ensure the long-term sustainability of the proposed support. Embracing a holistic approach, the counseling centers will include services for relatives since family members are often strongly affected by the dependence of their beloved ones. Finally, in all centers a professional social worker will help the clients in dealing with administrative and social problems. Blue Cross Czech Republic already opened one counselling center in Karvina. Martina (fictitious name) is one of its clients. She has told us her story which for us all is a sign of hope. FIND OUT MORE...

Project Goal	The project aims at closing an important gap in the Moravian-Silesian Region: the provision of treatment and aftercare services to dependent people. Through counseling, referral and long-term support, this project aims at reintegrating marginalized people and offering them the chance to live a life free of addiction.

Duration	2009-2012

Budget	Euro 380’835

EASTERN EUROPE

CZECH REPUBLIC

Blue Cross Czech Republic
Mgr. Jan Czudek
Modrý kříž v České republice, o.s.
ul. Šadový 311
737 01 Český Těšín
Phone: +420 595 534 521