“This is a truly transformational programme. This project is about making sure everyone gets a chance to reach their full potential in life and it is clear it is working. “

~ Taoiseach Simon Haris

 

Tiglin, a leading addiction treatment charity, has launched its new longitudinal research report, LIFE. RESTORED. The study, conducted by renowned social researcher Janet Robinson, offers compelling evidence of Tiglin's successful approach to addiction recovery. The study was launched by Taoiseach Simon Harris T.D. at Government Buildings on Wednesday, December 4th. An Taoiseach, Simon Harris, said:” ‘I am delighted to launch Tiglin’s research report and want to commend their work in supporting people with such compassion, dignity and respect.”

LIFE. RESTORED. introduces a powerful equation: Engagement = Change + Control. This formula encapsulates Tiglin's effectiveness in empowering service users and developing recovery capital.

 

Key components of recovery identified by service users include:

● Tools for emotional regulation and relapse prevention

● Increased self-awareness

● Development of supportive relationships with service providers, peers, and spirituality

These elements help individuals identify necessary changes and gain control over their addiction.

Jenny, a Tiglin graduate, shares her journey: "When I first arrived [at Tiglin], I felt disconnected from myself, my value and even my purpose. I lost so much to addiction. I watched as it stole my independence, my hope and even my family." Today, Jenny stands strong as a mother once again, "Tiglin has provided me with tools not only to cope but to rebuild and rediscover who I truly am".

Owen, another graduate, reflects on his transformation: "Today I am in college, my daughter has her dad back and my life has been rebuilt. I have seen that all the things that happened to me, even the worst of things, can be used to keep me focused and inspire other broken people to not give up hope".

 

The Tiglin LIFE. RESTORED report, based on 2,375 evaluations across 289 groups from 2019 to 2023, reveals high satisfaction rates among service users:

● 74% to 92% satisfaction with key group components

● Highest satisfaction reported in Aftercare programmes

● Group components enhanced engagement, supported treatment progression, and fostered the development of recovery capital.

Aubrey McCarthy, Co-founder and Chairman of Tiglin, emphasises: "Today's report brings evidence to what we have seen working for 15 years now. It shows that if you are willing to engage in the programme, this investment in yourself and your future will bring great returns to your life. You will see things change, you will regain control and autonomy over your life again". An Taoiseach, Simon Harris, commented on the report, saying that it shows “First-hand accounts of those who have used the service show how vital services like Tiglin are to help people rebuild their lives.”

 

The report's findings echo statements made by various Ministers and President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins, who described Tiglin as "a place where people who have had their participation in life disrupted, discover a new space and become full of hope and joy".

The Minister for National Drugs Strategy, Colm Burke commented ‘As Minister for the National Drugs Strategy, I recognise the important role that evidence-based research plays in informing drug policy priorities. It is also important that the living experience of people who use addiction services is considered both in shaping policy and evaluating it.  In this context I welcome the publication of “Tiglin’s Life, Restored” report, and its inclusive approach to evaluation.  This report, launched at Trinity Business School, highlights the transformative impact of Tiglin’s evidence-based approach, empowering people to build recovery capital and regain autonomy. Inspiring stories, like those of graduates Jenny and Owen, demonstrate how Tiglin is restoring lives, families, and communities. I commend Tiglin’s dedication to quality improvement, empowerment of people using its services, and its commitment to implement the Report’s recommendation to develop a monitoring system to achieve high standards of service delivery under the National Drugs Strategy.’ 

You can read the LIFE. RESTORED. research by clicking the link:

LIFE. RESTORED. Research