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BOSTON (State House News Service) — The county jail in Dedham will serve as a pilot site for a nationwide anti-stigma initiative.
Norfolk County Sheriff Patrick McDermott announced the news Tuesday, saying the Norfolk County Jail and House of Correction is the only jail in New England to be chosen for the Addiction Policy Forum program, which features more than 100 pilot sites nationwide.
People at the chosen sites will be working to reduce the stigma of addiction. Starting in December, the the sheriff's office plans to provide participants with one-on-one counseling and small group sessions which will address roadblocks that the stigma of addiction can create. Participants will also receive information on the science of addiction, evidence-based treatment options and medications to treat addiction.
"In order to have a chance in successfully fighting against the stigma and grip of substance use disorders, we must continue to pursue all avenues of treatment, intervention and education. The Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office is at the forefront of this battle, and is committed to finding solutions to this health care crisis," McDermott said. "This partnership with the Anti-Stigma Initiative will provide those we serve with additional tools to help overcome substance use disorder and remain on a successful, healthy path forward."
As part of the pilot, McDermott's office will also field test the "Responding to Addiction" intervention developed by the APF, and participate in a study being conducted by the University of Delaware and the Addiction Policy Forum.
Written by Michael P. Norton/SHNS
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