In 1995, Cheryl Bailey decided to get sober, after a long battle with alcohol abuse. She decided she wanted to be a better mother to her only son, and joined Alcoholics Anonymous.
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Thirteen years on, she has become part of a dedicated team fighting for the development of a drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre especially for Aboriginal women.
Ngaimpe Aboriginal Corporation, also known as the Glen Centre, wants an initial investment of $4.5 million to establish NSW’s first Aboriginal community controlled drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre for women, and an ongoing investment of at least $1.5m per year to operate the centre.
The centre will initially treat more than 80 women per year, with the potential to help over 2000 clients in 10 years’ time if investment is ongoing.
A feasibility study recommends a holistic approach that requires not only the establishment of the first Aboriginal community controlled rehabilitation centre, but multiple outreach centres strategically located throughout NSW to support women before and after treatment.
Waminda CEO Faye Worner said the push for an Aboriginal women’s drug and alcohol rehab services began 30 years ago.
“The community really needs to be able to access services that are holistic and look at the needs of women and their families before they go into rehab, while they’re in rehab and what happens for her and her family once she comes out,” she said.
“It’s really crucial that we have that wrap-around service for women so they can become the person they want to be, and that the trauma that leads to drug and alcohol addiction is addressed.”
Ms Bailey, who is also one of the directors at the Glen Centre, said she wanted to be an example for women around her who are struggling with drug and alcohol abuse.
“I’ve worked with so many women but it’s about not leaving the children behind, and having a culturally appropriate rehab to go to,” she said.
“That’s why I’m fighting so hard for this rehab centre, and I won’t give up.”