The Salvation Army Foundation Implements Risk and Damage Reduction Approach for Addiction Support

The Salvation Army Foundation emphasizes an unconditional and personalized approach to supporting individuals struggling with addictions. This principle is central to its social practices, aiming to accompany people in all dimensions of their consumption, whether related to drugs, alcohol, or other addictive behaviors. The foundation’s commitment reflects a deep concern for the well-being of those in vulnerable situations.

Since the start of 2024, the Salvation Army Foundation has adopted a risk and damage reduction (RdRD) strategy within its facilities. This approach recognizes that individuals in precarious circumstances often face more frequent, more risky, and more complex challenges when it comes to quitting substances entirely. The effectiveness of this method varies across different institutions, highlighting the non-linear nature of recovery journeys. Françoise Lefevbre, director of the Henri Durand residence in Louviers, notes that the goal is to raise awareness of potential outcomes and the various risks associated with addiction, such as health issues, employment loss, and the breakdown of social and family ties.

In response to these insights, the foundation is working to transform its approach to substance use by strengthening collaboration between addiction professionals and institutional staff through training. This initiative aims to ensure that those working with individuals in recovery are equipped to provide effective support.

A key aspect of this strategy is the active involvement of the individuals being supported. The foundation seeks to engage them as partners in the implementation of risk reduction plans, ensuring they are not merely recipients of care but active participants in their own recovery process.

In Reims, residents participate in regular interventions every 15 days, covering topics such as smoke-free months, alcohol awareness, and access to care devices. These activities also include individualized support to promote less addictive consumption patterns. Many individuals in recovery find that underlying issues such as psychological suffering or trauma contribute to their addiction, underscoring the need for holistic support.

The foundation continues to build on this dynamic partnership, listening to the needs of those it supports to foster well-being. In Louviers, lockers are provided for residents to store alcohol bottles, encouraging reduced consumption. Similarly, in Reims, alcohol is permitted within the facility, reflecting a tailored approach that respects the unique circumstances of each individual. The people welcomed into these spaces report that having access to meals within the facility directly influences their behaviors, leading to less frequent and less intense consumption.

Source: Read the original report (translated from French)