With over 25 years of experience in the drug and alcohol sector, Laura shares her journey, offers insights into the importance of this progressive accreditation category, and discusses how she hopes it may help shape the future of addiction care in Ireland.

Until now, no other Irish accrediting body has formally recognised Addiction Workers - how does it feel to be at the forefront of this progressive step?

I feel very proud to be the first accredited Addiction Worker with ACI!

This is an amazing step forward, not just for addiction practitioners at a personal level, but also for our wider drug and alcohol sector. This development affords Addiction Workers, and the wider sector, to develop and enhance standards.

Can you share a bit about your background and what motivated you to pursue a career in the field of addiction?

I've worked in the drug and alcohol sector for nearly 25 years, holding various roles that address community-related issues from multiple perspectives, including education, prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and recovery. I was keen to understand the impact of addiction not only on individuals but also on families and the wider community. This understanding fuelled my passion and commitment to helping individuals, families, and communities overcome these impacts. While this field can be challenging, it is also deeply rewarding.

Why would you encourage those working as Addiction Workers to seek accreditation?

Unlike other professions, there were no professional bodies offering accreditation for Addiction Workers. It is a much-needed and forward-thinking step for our sector. I'd encourage others to seek this accreditation, as it offers the chance to join a professional body like ACI and enjoy the many benefits it provides. Also, to achieve re-accreditation each year I am more aware of the importance of CPD and my participation in it. Similarly, I am aware of the importance and need in engaging in formal supervision structures.

What do you believe is the long-term benefit of formal accreditation for Addiction Workers, and the field as a whole?

It will bring enhanced standards and quality assurance to the profession while fostering a greater sense of professionalism and strengthening professional identity - which I believe are key long-term benefits. At its core, this recognition highlights the pivotal and necessary role Addiction Workers play.

In your experience, how will this accreditation positively influence the quality of care and support that Addiction Workers can provide to individuals and families?

It will ensure that Addiction Workers engage in ongoing professional development and regular formal supervision. This commitment enhances the quality of care provided to individuals and families by encouraging practitioners to continuously expand their knowledge and skill sets. Supervision also plays a critical role, offering space to reflect on cases, workloads, and challenges while providing guidance and support.

Importantly, it promotes self-care, helping practitioners manage the demands of this challenging yet rewarding work. Accreditation not only strengthens the practitioner but also leads to better opportunities and outcomes for those we serve.

What do you hope to see in the future for the profession of Addiction Worker, and how do you see ACI's role in shaping that future?

I hope to see many more Addiction Workers, who provide vital care and support to those attending our services, being recognised as the valued and essential professionals they are. Achieving accreditation with ACI can only strengthen our professional identity. It underscores the importance of our role in the field. I believe ACI's ongoing recognition and support will play a key part in elevating the status of Addiction Workers and shape a more unified, respected profession!