Safety comes before the programme.

A timer, conversation or day programme can support change. They cannot make dangerous withdrawal, overdose or an acute medical or mental-health emergency safe.

Alcohol withdrawal

HSE guidance says withdrawal can begin around 8 hours after the last drink and may worsen over the following 24–48 hours. Severe withdrawal can include seizures, hallucinations and delirium tremens. If you get withdrawal symptoms when stopping alcohol, seek medical advice; severe symptoms require urgent medical care.

Drugs and medicines

Risk depends on the substance, pattern of use, combinations, health conditions and medicines. Opioids and mixed-substance use can involve overdose risk. A non-medical programme should not substitute itself for assessment, detoxification, prescribing or emergency care.

Before participation

Initial screening should identify immediate risk and whether medical, psychiatric or other specialist assessment is needed. Where safe participation cannot be established, the appropriate next step may be referral or stabilisation elsewhere before programme participation.

During participation

Safety concerns are escalated according to the situation. Confidentiality is important but is not an absolute promise where disclosure is required by law or where an applicable safeguarding/emergency process requires action.

HSE support

For confidential information about drugs or alcohol in Ireland, the HSE Drugs and Alcohol Helpline is 1800 459 459, Monday to Friday, 9:30am–5:30pm.