Page 2 - MELD Stimulant service
P. 2
Foreword
In response to the increase of stimulant drug referrals and concerns about the
rise of drug related deaths in Scotland, where cocaine and poly drug use was
implicated, MELD sought funding to offer alternative treatment choices to
individuals presenting to service, including complementary therapies.
STIMULANT PROJECT STAFF
The Stimulant Project was delivered by Linda Bernard and Laura Grant. Both are
current staff members of the MELD team. For the purposes of this project, Linda
was commissioned as a self-employed therapist, due to her background and
experience in delivering complementary therapies and substance use knowledge.
Treatment choices included Aromatherapy Massage, Indian Head Massage, Reiki
and Auricular Acupuncture with a focus on well-being. Aromatherapy oil blends
were also provided after one to one consultations. Other interventions included
motivational interviewing, self-care techniques and positive coping strategies.
Individuals were supported and encouraged to make small achievable goals that
would support recovery.
Laura Grant is the Senior Peer Support Worker at MELD and has a co-ordinator role
within the Agency managing 4 peer support workers with lived experience. She is
also responsible for providing substance use training to new staff. Her background
allows for a greater understanding of how challenging it can be for individuals to
reach out to services for support. During the project, Laura provided a safe space to
meet individuals during and after each session with contact in-between. This helped
to increase confidence and give hope that change is possible and achievable.
“for me personally, i’ve found what’s
been missing in my recovery journey.”
Quote: Participant who received Aromatherapy massage and Reiki in December 2022.
Also engaged in the MELD Core Service.