IFDAS (Independence From Drugs and Alcohol Scotland)

IFDAS (Independence from Drugs and Alcohol Scotland) is a new organisation giving hope to those who face an endless cycle of rehabilitation and slipping back into addiction. The model is drawn from highly successful, similar programmes in other countries and is based on providing an appropriate residential setting and building a community for recovery.

In this case, the site is the stunningly beautiful and peaceful River Garden in Ayrshire. The method revolves around abstinence, trust within firm boundaries, mutual support, respect for life and responsibility with social enterprise at the heart of creating productive and self-sustaining lives. Residents are invited to stay for a 3 year period and are offered support and meaningful activity to help them get into long-term recovery. The social enterprise model helps them achieve this through work, where they use their skills to earn a living or learn new skills so they can stand on their own two feet on leaving the programme.