SAOL Project works with women who experience severe and multiple disadvantage – primarily addiction but also including combinations of (but not limited to) poverty, domestic and interpersonal violence, mental ill health, sex work, coming from care, homelessness, engagement with criminal justice and trauma (including the trauma of having children removed into care).

 

SAOL supports all our participants as they navigate the cumulative impact of their interconnected needs in a systemic environment of stigmatising and patriarchal expectations of vulnerability, intentionality and deservingness.

 

Mission:

SAOL is a community project dedicated to improving the lives of women affected by addiction and poverty. We aim to empower women to embrace their identity, define their future, and create positive change in the world.

Vision:

SAOL envisions a transformed approach to addiction and poverty in Ireland, where the unique needs of women are recognized and addressed with compassion and effectiveness.

 

Core Values:

- Empowerment: We believe in the potential of every woman to overcome challenges and achieve her goals.

- Inclusivity: Our services are designed to be accessible and supportive for all women, regardless of their stage in recovery.

- Advocacy: We actively work to highlight and address the specific needs and challenges faced by female drug users.

- Community: We foster a supportive environment that encourages connection and mutual support among women.

- Feminism: We believe in and advocate for the political, economic, and social equality of all genders, acknowledging that such equality has not yet been achieved.

 

Services:

- Education: Providing educational programs to enhance skills and knowledge.

- Rehabilitation: Offering tailored rehabilitation services to support women in their recovery journey, from wherever they are to wherever they want to go.

- Advocacy: Advocating for better services and support for female drug users.

- Childcare: Ensuring that children of women in our program receive the care and support they need.

 

Commitment:

SAOL is committed to continuously developing and adapting our services to meet the changing needs of the women we serve. We strive to create a safe, friendly, and supportive environment where women can progress at their own pace.

 

Call to Action:

We invite all service providers to examine their response to women and adjust their practices to better meet their needs. Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive community for women affected by addiction poverty and multiple and severe disadvantage.