Students of SETU’s Master of Arts in Child, Youth, and Family Studies recently engaged in a series of insightful sessions on addiction as part of their Addiction Studies module.
These sessions, designed to bridge academic learning with real-world experience, featured presentations from community-based services, research experts, and individuals with lived experience, which were part of a broader initiative that included contributions from researchers in the Health Research Board (HRB) on drug and alcohol policy in Ireland. The aim of the programme was to give students a deeper and more personal understanding of addiction and recovery.
Learning from lived experience
A key moment of the programme was a presentation by representatives from Cuan Mhuire in Athy, where students heard a first-hand account of addiction and recovery. One participant shared a deeply moving insight, saying,
“I share my story in the hope that it will one day help you to help others like me.”
This statement captured the essence of the sessions, allowing students to move beyond theory to truly understand the impact of addiction.
The Alternative Project in Athy also provided invaluable insight into community-based rehabilitation and restorative justice. The session was led by Ciarán Reilly and Wil Lacombre and featured a participant who shared their personal journey. This emphasised the importance of a tailored, person-centred approach to addiction treatment. The discussion reinforced the idea that effective recovery strategies must be adaptable to individual needs, rather than a one-size-fits-all model.
HRB researcher Dr Ciara Guiney recently gave a presentation on Ireland’s drug and alcohol policy to give students an essential policy perspective, linking frontline experiences with national frameworks and challenges, giving students practical, grounded, and socially engaged understanding of addiction.
Universities as catalysts for change
These sessions highlight the pivotal role of universities in connecting academic learning with real-world challenges. SETU remains committed to bridging the gap between theory and practice, ensuring students gain first-hand exposure to industry professionals and community services. Through collaborations with Cuan Mhuire, Coolmine, Tiglin, The Alternative Project, and the HRB, SETU students benefit from an education that extends beyond the theoretical approach to one that is rooted in experience, empathy, and direct application.
“Universities should be more than just places of learning—they should be hubs of community engagement and social change. At SETU, our new facilities are not just buildings; they are bridges, connecting students, researchers, and community partners to tackle real-world challenges together. By embedding collaboration at the heart of our teaching and research, we ensure that learning extends beyond the classroom and into the lives of those who need it most.”
John Balfe, Lecturer in the Department of Humanities at SETU
Shaping future professionals
Merging academic study with community engagement is vital in preparing future social care professionals, addiction specialists, and community workers. SETU’s approach ensures graduates leave with not only theoretical knowledge but also the practical hands-on experience needed to make a real impact in addiction support and recovery.
By continuing to foster collaboration between universities and community services, SETU is helping to shape a future where education, empathy and expertise work together to create meaningful change in addiction treatment and recovery.
