Kick the Habit, Start Over
A transformative community-based offender program that changes lives
KickStart is a suite of highly successful programs developed to produce real impact for individuals in the community with alcohol and/or other drugs issues and offending behaviour.
A highly effective behaviour change program
Designed, developed and piloted by Caraniche - who draw on 25 years’ experience working with offenders - the suite of programs represent a fresh and highly effective community-based take on these significant alcohol and drug programs.
For Facilitators
Successful completion of KickStart equips participants with effective strategies to address the link between substance use and offending, while increasing motivation and self-efficacy for change.
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For Agencies
KickStart’s evidence-based programs are delivered by endorsed AOD agencies who are supported by a Community of Practice, ongoing Supervision and an online Facilitator Portal.
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The KickStart programs work
Getting a handle on substance use and criminal activities is a massive challenge for community-based offenders. KickStart programs deliver the strategies to meet those challenges.
KickStart’s fundamental aim is to create meaningful behavioural change in community-based offenders. During the KickStart Pilot, participants reported significant improvements in their emotional regulation (as measured by the DERS); and reduced criminal thinking (as measured by the PICTS).
Other key indicators of behaviour change in KickStart participants are the frequency of urine test breaches and Correction Order breaches.
Improvements in emotional regulation and psychological distress
Reductions in current criminal thinking
Improvements in overall quality of life
Participant feedback
“I have calmed down and taken time to stop, relax and rethink before acting.”
“I am more confident in myself knowing that I don’t need drugs to live a happy life.”
“[I've seen] a change in my emotions. I can really take time to actually see what I'm really feeling. Usually I wouldn’t care.”
For Facilitators
Two flexible formats
KickStart Group Program
Duration: 42 hours (15 sessions) OR 24 hours (8 sessions)
Participant requirements: Male offenders serving community Corrections Orders, combined custodial sentences or parole
KickStart Individual Program
Duration:15 hours or 8 hours
Participant requirements: Male offenders serving community Corrections Orders who are unsuitable for group programs
3 BIG OUTCOMES
1.
Increases self-awareness of the relationship between drug use and offending.
2.
Provides skill development while increasing motivation and self-efficacy for change.
3.
Guides the development of realistic and actionable self-management plans.
For agencies
Delivering the KickStart programs
Our comprehensive KickStart endorsement equips clinicians with the tools and ongoing support needed to effectively facilitate KickStart programs to male offenders in the community.
Throughout the face-to-face 3-day training, AOD facilitators will develop skills in criminogenic group program delivery, how to manage complex and challenging behaviours, and explore the links between substance use and offending.
Successful completion of the training equips facilitators with the skills necessary to deliver the entire KickStart suite, including group and individual programs.
Endorsed providers of KickStart are part of an engaged clinical community of practice, receiving ongoing training and regular clinical supervision. This high level of clinical engagement, coupled with regular review and updates of program content, ensures optimal participant outcomes.
Ready to know more?
To let us know if you are interested in KickStart, all you need to do is answer a few questions and we’ll be in touch.
