At a special ceremony held at the Therapeutic Centre of Ibwar, the Minister for Social Policy and Children's Rights Michael Falzon recognised the progress that 4 adolescents had made in overcoming their drug addiction.

This was the sixth edition of the event, where recognition was given in the presence of the adolescents themselves and their families, as well as the Minister and the leadership of Caritas Malta, among others.

Falzon emphasised the “government's commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind, especially the most vulnerable individuals.”

“We are committed to continuing to make a difference in people's lives and this program is a living example of ongoing work aimed at maximizing the potential of each individual at their own pace,” Falzon said.

“This government will continue to invest in the field of addiction because we believe in a healthier society, built on a life far from substance use," said Falzon.

On his part, the Director of Caritas, Anthony Gatt, thanked the government for its ongoing collaboration and funding to operate this service.

“Caritas remains committed to ensuring that adolescents who fall into this trap find themselves accompanied and assisted in getting back on their feet and finding their way," said Gatt.

This programme is spread over a year or more, depending on the individual's needs, and is run by a team of professionals who provide assistance 24 hours a day to those who choose to reform their lives.

The professional team at the Therapeutic Centre for Adolescents of Ibwar began intervening with young people from May 2021.

This centre provides residential services, an applied learning hub, psychosocial services for adolescents and their families, and community services.

Since its opening, it has worked with 73 adolescents and their families. 

In addition to the community services offered to these adolescents, 20 of them benefited from intensive residential services.

This centre is the first of its kind in Malta, and was created with an investment of €4 million from the government and a recurring expenditure of €1 million euros per year.

This funding ensures that all educational resources are provided, strengthening social development, behaviour, and overall well-being of adolescents.