As part of an education drive to educate employees and create greater awareness of substance abuse, within its focus of general employee health and wellbeing, Macsteel has launched an internal initiative called Toolbox Talks in partnership with Silkworth Recovery Centre, a non-profit rehabilitation centre focusing on substance abuse and recovery. Throughout November Silkworth Recovery Centre are holding weekly talks with Macsteel employees to bring to the fore issues and dangers of substance abuse.
According to a recent survey by the World Health Organisation, 15% of South Africa’s population has a drug problem and according to SAPS figures, 60% of crimes nationally were related to substance abuse.
“These statistics are very alarming and we have a responsibility as an employer to educate and inform our employees of the effects of substance abuse, not only for those who use but also taking into account the ripple effect it has on their family and friends,” said Kim Allan, Macsteel’s Group Corporate Social Responsibility Manager.
Silkworth Recovery Centre provides prevention AND awareness talks, campaigns and events to over 30 schools across eastern Gauteng reaching about 20 000 learners each term to educate and make the learners more aware about substance abuse.
Kevin Maistry, Director at Silkworth Recovery Centre said, “We’ve received very positive feedback from a number of these schools on the reduction of substance abuse. All our staff are trained and certified by the Department of Social Development, we are one of two government accredited aftercare centres in Gauteng which to run these certified programmes.”
The recovery centre offers substance abuse evaluations, educational services and programmes, aftercare services, diversion programmes, family intervention and recovery support structures.
