2024 marked an exciting and innovative period for the FAST team as we launched a new social media campaign aimed at raising awareness of cocaine-specific supports. Recognising that traditional advertising methods were no longer effective in reaching our target audience, we made a strategic decision to adopt a more contemporary and creative approach.

Over the course of the year, FAST received 535 direct messages through social media requesting information on cocaine services.

Cocaine service provision was a key focus of FAST’s work throughout 2024. In close collaboration with the HSE, Section 39 organisations, and HSE clinical addiction services, we continued to respond proactively to the evolving challenges associated with cocaine use, delivering targeted, evidence-informed programmes directly within the community.

FAST’s outreach team also delivered crack cocaine contingency management groups to women residing in Tus Nua, which provides accommodation for women leaving The Dochas Centre, many of whom have complex needs and are vulnerable within the community.

FAST further demonstrated its commitment to innovation and early intervention by collaborating with the HSE and the Rotunda Hospital to pilot a new initiative supporting pregnant women using crack cocaine.