Our Vision

Our vision is to have a society that is protected from the harm that can result from alcohol and drug use. To do this we need to address alcohol and drug use directly and also the other related social factors that contribute to substance use problems. 

We can do this through approaches that result in the prevention of substance use problems at individual, community and societal levels, providing effective intervention that supports positive change that reduces the harm caused by substance use and supporting recovery.

Most of our work is directly addressing substance use at an individual, family or community level. We also aim to prevent substance use harm in areas where there are established related risks and impacts such as mental health.

It is known that people experiencing mental health issues, trauma, self harm or suicidal ideation are at a higher risk of substance use problems and vice versa. People experiencing other challenges such as homelessness, being in the criminal justice system, or having been in the care system have a higher risk of substance use related harm.

ASCERT delivers services and projects in some of these areas, in the knowledge that by responding to these we will also further our main aim of preventing or reducing harm from alcohol or substance use issues. When considering the complement of services we undertake, we are mindful to ensure that our work is complementary to our charitable objectives, our mission and are to the public benefit.