LEAP of joy: pioneering programme celebrates 600th success story

A groundbreaking initiative which helps people overcome their addictions has celebrated helping its 600th graduate. Edinburgh resident Angie Dunn is the latest person to complete the Lothian and Edinburgh Abstinence Programme (LEAP), and she joined staff and NHS Lothian Chair Brian Houston to mark the event. 

LEAP is a three-month treatment and rehabilitation programme for those dependent on alcohol and other drugs (including opiates, stimulants, cannabis, tranquillisers etc.). Now based at Woodlands House at the Astley Ainslie Hospital (above), it is suitable for those who want to achieve a substance-free recovery. The programme is part of the services provided by the Substance Misuse Directorate and is delivered in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council, Transition/Access to Industry and the Serenity Café.

There are six elements to LEAP to help people achieve recovery. These are:

• Medical
• Therapeutic
• Mutual aid/recovery communities
• Housing
• Education, training and employability
• Aftercare

Dr David McCartney, who leads LEAP, said he was proud of all the graduates that had successfully completed the programme: “Many of our graduates will have suffered from drug or alcohol addiction for several years before they sought help, so completing a three month treatment programme is a significant first step on the road to recovery. 

“The programme is a tough and daunting challenge for those taking part. Patients are supported throughout the 12-week programme – as well as receiving medical care and therapy, patients are encouraged to support each other and are also assisted with housing, education and training.”

Angie, 49, said she wanted to use her experiences on the course to inspire others with addiction to come forward and get help from LEAP. She said: “My drinking was out of control and I had reached a very low point. Taking part in the programme was very tough but it has been fantastic – it’s boosted my confidence and made me realise I can take back control of my life.” 

There are twenty patients in early recovery on the LEAP treatment programme at any time. The intensive programme which began in 2007 has won an award for partnership working (with City of Edinburgh Council and Access to Industry).

A study at LEAP has found that most patients who complete treatment sustain a long term recovery.