Over the past six years, CASA has developed a number of children and youth-focused programmes aimed at sensitizing and informing these groups about the relationship between drug use, misuse, and HIV/AIDS. These initiatives are designed to provide early intervention, education, and support to help young persons make informed and responsible life choices.

Each programme is tailored to meet the specific needs of different age groups and levels of exposure to substance use. Through structured sessions, participants are guided in understanding the risks associated with drug use and are equipped with practical skills to navigate everyday challenges.

CEPAG Programme

The CEPAG (Children Education and Prevention Awareness Group) programme is designed for children between the ages of 5 and 13 who have not experimented with or used drugs. This programme focuses on early education and prevention, helping children build awareness and develop positive attitudes toward healthy living.

STAR Programme

The STAR (Special Therapy for Adolescent Rehabilitation) programme is aimed at young persons between the ages of 12 and 21 who may have already experimented with or used substances. This programme provides therapeutic support and guidance to help participants understand their behaviours and begin the process of rehabilitation.

AYP Programme

The AYP (Assert Yourself Programme) is designed for young persons between the ages of 12 and 23, including those who may have been involved in substance use or trafficking. This programme focuses on building self-confidence, decision-making skills, and personal responsibility to help participants make positive life choices.

Anger Management Programme

CASA has observed an increase in referrals involving young persons experiencing anger and aggressive behavioural issues. Many of these individuals face challenges in coping with daily pressures and often struggle to communicate or express themselves effectively, resulting in conflict.

Research conducted over the 2007–2008 period revealed that a total of 222 adolescents were counselled for behavioural problems. The Anger Management Programme addresses these concerns by helping participants understand their emotions and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Programme Topics Include:

• Why people use drugs
• Risk-taking behaviour
• How drugs affect individuals
• Behaviour under the influence of drugs
• Development of refusal skills
• Building self-confidence and assertiveness
• Understanding how HIV/AIDS is contracted
• The consequences of HIV/AIDS
• Understanding anger and emotional responses
• Healthy ways to manage and express anger

At CASA, we are acutely aware of the relationship between substance use, misuse, and HIV/AIDS. The use of mind-altering substances can increase the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviours, including unsafe sexual practices, which can lead to HIV infection.

Our experience has shown that children and young persons who participate in these programmes are better prepared to face the challenges of growing up. They demonstrate improved decision-making, stronger communication skills, and greater confidence in handling difficult situations.

CASA aims to expand these programmes beyond the centre and into communities across Barbados. By increasing outreach efforts, we hope to further sensitize children and young persons to the dangers of substance use and HIV/AIDS. With additional funding and support, this vision can become a reality.