The latest Phase 50 report (2022) compiled by the South African Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use (SACENDU) reveals that in the Western Cape, the primary substances of use reported by 36 specialist treatment centres/programmes between the January – June 2021 were ‘Tik’ (35%), cannabis (24%), alcohol(18%) and heroin( 7 %) which together, comprises 84 percent of all admissions.
Overall, 2433 people were treated across all 36 treatment centres in the first half of 2021
“As we commemorate the start of National Drug Awareness Week, I wish to remind the public that our services are here to help. Let us not discriminate or stigmatise those who suffer from a substance use disorder (SUD). Instead, let us all take responsibility to help prevent abuse in the first place and enable those who are struggling around us to overcome addiction and sustain their recovery.”
The Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) with the support of its Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) partners, continues to provide quality substance abuse treatment and early intervention services, across the province despite financial constraints.
During the 2021/22 financial year, 9199 individuals accessed substance abuse prevention and treatment services offered by the Department and its partners.
The DSD with the support of its NPO partners, provides a wide array of (SUD) programmes, ranging from prevention, early intervention through to community-based and in-patient rehabilitation and aftercare services. All programmes funded by the DSD are registered in accordance with the Prevention of and Treatment for Substance Abuse Act, Act 70 of 2008.
“No one grows up thinking they are going to become addicted to alcohol or drugs. I would like to thank all the individuals, communities, organisations and civil society working together to help provide support to those experiencing a substance use disorder. Anybody needing more information or assistance can contact us on the www.heretohelp.co.za website, or the DSD hotline on 0800 220 250,” said Minister Fernandez.
