Ammanford families will be amongst the first to take part in a national research project evaluating how effective a new scheme is at strengthening the family unit to prevent young people from misusing alcohol and drugs.
Carmarthenshire families have the opportunity to be part of a prestigious research project funded by the National Prevention Research Initiative, led by Cardiff University in collaboration with Swansea University and Oxford Brookes University.
Carmarthenshire County Council was selected as one of six local authorities to deliver the Strengthening Families Programme 10-14 (UK).
The first roll-out of the scheme will begin in Ammanford Comprehensive School later this month, and will be run in other areas of the county later in the year.
Fran Dixon, Strengthening Families Coordinator, said: “Becoming a teenager can be a challenging time for young people and parents alike. The Strengthening Families Programme has been proven to support parents and young people through this time of change.
“Strengthening Families is a seven-week programme for families living in Carmarthenshire with young people aged between 10 and 14.
“The programme runs after school for two and a half hours each week. Food is provided for families, there are prizes for taking part and there are some childcare and play activities for the younger children in the family. The programme should be a lot of fun for the family and we want to ensure as many people get the chance to be part of the project as possible.”
Kelvin Barlow, team manager for substance misuse services, said: “Families play an integral role in steering young people along the right paths in life. We are delighted to be part of this project which will help us to understand what works for families in Carmarthenshire. The Strengthening Families approach provides an opportunity for services to intervene early before the problems become insurmountable.”
If you would like to attend the Strengthening Families Programme or would like any further information contact Fran Dixon, Strengthening Families Coordinator, on 01554 744377, or email [email protected]
