Josefa Sigavolavola 
[Photo: JOSEFA SIGAVOLAVOLA]
A new programme offering free drug and alcohol recovery support is being piloted in Fiji, with plans to expand across the Pacific.
Pherrus Financial Services Fiji has partnered with the Light of Life Recovery Program to provide rehabilitation support for people struggling with substance use.
Managing Partner Kris Prasad says the initiative is part of the company’s social responsibility efforts.
“We can see our fellow brothers and sisters in Fiji and the broader South Pacific unfortunately having issues with drugs, rehabilitation, and the general education of drugs and alcohol.”
Facilitator Tricia Emberson, who grew up in Fiji, noted that alcohol and drug use often becomes normalised through culture and peer pressure.
“It’s just ingrained in us as we’re growing up. A lot of the culture, one of it is heavy drinking and its being acceptable, and what I’ve recognised in recent years is that alcohol has become drug taking and drug use.”
Another facilitator, Tristan Pitt ware, highlighted that the Light of Life Recovery Program has been operating globally since the 1920s and is now being piloted in Fiji.
“And it’s all free. That’s what I wanted to state — all the work that we’re doing for Light of Life Recovery, there’s no payment required.”
Pherrus Financial Services Fiji and Light of Life are currently in discussions with organisations already providing rehabilitation services in the country.
