Serhiy (name changed) tried drugs at a young age and couldn't give them up. The guy changed and later lost the support of his family and ended up in prison.
"After his release, Serhiy's life became even more complicated. He still had an addiction, and because of this, he had health problems and difficulties in finding a job. The man faced condemnation from people, broke the law again and received a suspended sentence," says Mariana Yurichkanych, a social worker at the Light of Hope NGO.
The specialist met the man while counseling people registered in the Kryukiv district department of the branch of the State Institution "Probation Center" in the Poltava region.
At the time of meeting the social worker, Serhiy had suicidal thoughts. Therefore, the support provided by the specialist consisted of two areas:
- psychosocial support;
- access to medical care.
Individual consultations with a psychologist and participation in support groups helped Serhiy overcome his fear of social condemnation, believe in himself, and see prospects for the future.
The screening results revealed a suspicion of hepatitis C. Mariana Yurichkanych referred Serhiy for examination to confirm the diagnosis. He receives the necessary treatment free of charge. The specialist also helped the man take the first step towards overcoming drug addiction and start substitution maintenance therapy.
Serhiy has a permanent job, continues treatment, has found new friends among those who share his experience, and has established relationships with his family:
"I no longer believed that my life could change for the better, but thanks to the support of the Light of Hope team, I was able to start all over again."
Serhiy's story is an example of how effective cooperation between the non-governmental sector and local authorities can save people's lives. After all, the social services that the man received were ordered by the Department of Social Protection of the Population of the Kremenchuk City Council to support those who are on the verge of social isolation, but are striving to fix things.
