Bermuda Youth Counselling Services has begun a ten-week pilot programme aimed at reducing substance abuse and involvement among the Island’s males aged 19 to 24.

The programme, which is being run in conjunction with the Probation team of Court Services, seeks to increase participants’ ability to weigh the consequences of being involved with substance abuse and its related behaviours.

It’s also aimed at providing them with the wherewithal to begin the process of reducing involvement in substance abuse and will assist with the building of positive peer relationships and increased involvement in pro-social activities.

Among the techniques used by the facilitators are Rational Emotive Therapy, Motivational Learning and Social Learning Approaches.

Dale Butler, Minister of Social Rehabilitation, said: “The programme will provide participants with the skills needed to live more meaningful productive lives. And, free from the dangers associated with substance abuse and the illegal drug trade.”