S.W.A.P.

South West Alternative Programme

The South West Alternative Programme (S.W.A.P.) is an autonomous, nonprofit organisation established in 1985 as a community service dedicated to helping people affected by drug abuse and related problems. S.W.A.P. is a registered charity and is not affiliated with any other organisation. SWAP's activities are supported in part by NSW Health Grants and donations from local business and service clubs.

The aims of S.W.A.P. are:

1. To reduce the harm associated with alcohol and other drug use for individuals living in the Fairfield local government area, and for their communities
2. To improve the quality of life for people affected by alcohol and other drugs by promoting and supporting:
   • Self determination
   • Choice
   • Individual Rights and Responsibilities

The main focus of the service is on young people from non-English speaking backgrounds, but anyone living in the Fairfield local government area is welcome to use the services.

Services:

• Crisis Intervention and Support
• Individual and Family Counselling (free and confidential)
• Assessment and Referral
• Relapse Prevention
• Alcohol &U Other Drugs Reference Library
• Fee for Service Court Assessment and Advocacy

Prior to December 1999, SWAP provided training in AOD issues to health professionals and was active in developing posters, pamphlets and other resource materials. Limited staffing and a shift in emphasis to support Drug Summit funding and other requirements has resulted in SWAP dropping these activities to concentrate on counselling.

S.W.A.P. continues its student education support for local schools, and expects to re-enter its Professional Support functions early in 2001.

A Vietnamese counsellor provides sessional services

• S.W.A.P. is located at 81 Cabramatta Road
  Cabramatta, NSW 2166
  Phone: (02) 9726 4006

• Mail: PO Box 21
  Lansvale
  NSW, 2166        Or via    Email at: swapda@rpi.net.au