Midlands Drug & Alcohol Treatment Supports (DATS) Service

Merchants Quay Ireland DATS Service delivers a community-based drug and alcohol treatment support service to individuals over 18 years of age problematic drug and/or alcohol use and to families in Longford, Westmeath, Laois and Offaly.

Our Midlands Drug & Alcohol Treatment Supports Service offers:

• An outreach based crisis support service
• A mobile harm-reduction needle exchange programme
• Information, education and advocacy support
• Rehabilitation and aftercare support
• Family Support Service
• Community Employment (CE) scheme

How does the Family Support Service operate?

The service provides evidence-based supports to reduce the problems experienced by families and children in the midlands region (Laois, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath) associated with familial drug and alcohol issues. The family support service operates on a one-to-one basis, and also offers small family support groups.

Merchants Quay Ireland’s family support services are funded by HSE CADS (Community Alcohol & Drug Services) and the Midland Regional Drugs & Alcohol Task Force. The under 18s service is an initiative across MQI DATS & Extern MYDAS.

How does the Community Employment (CE) Drug Rehabilitation Scheme operate?

The Athlone CE Scheme offers opportunities for people in recovery from substance misuse to re-engage into active community and working life. The programme offers: individual learning plans, life skills courses, woodwork & pottery, educational and personal development, and opportunities for work experience.

For more information on the requirements of the programme and how to access the programme contact: infoathlone@mqi.ie or phone Helena on  089 235 3244 or Laura on 086 042 8166 or call 090 641 7095.

The Athlone CE Scheme is supported by the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection, which is funded by the Irish Government. 

Do I have to pay for the service?

The Midlands DATS is a free, confidential and holistic service, which works with all relevant agencies to ensure the best possible outcome for service users.

How can I access this service?

You can contact our team Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.