Who we are?

DRIVE Consumer Direction Counties Manukau is a network for people who have lived experience of emotional distress or harm from alcohol or other drugs. We bring the information as well as the hope that recovery is not just possible but probable!

What do we do?

The number one thing we do is let people know where the resources are so they can empower themselves. Whether that be an addiction program, counselling, legal advice, training, or employment.

DEVELOPMENT

Personal, professional and of the peer workforce.

RECOVERY

To live a life you can be proud of.

INFORMATION

Making Information easily accessible.

VOICE

Promoting the Voice of lived experience.

EDUCATION

Promoting peer-led education.

What we do

Support people to empower themselves

We let you know where the resources are so you can empower yourself.

We're a network. Not a service

We are a network for people who have lived experience of emotional distress or harm from alcohol or other drugs.

We promote systemic advocacy

We want all people to be supported to be who and what they want to be.

Our People

All DRIVE kaimahi have lived experience of emotional distress or harm from alcohol or other drugs.
Zoë Collins
Senior Network Coordinator
Zoë has extensive experience as a Peer Support Specialist with people who experience harm from alcohol or other drugs in Counties Manukau.
zoe@drivedirection.org.nz
Ruth Cheeseman
Network Coordinator
Ruth's passion in recovery is that people are able to find support, do what works for them – and have a voice that is heard. She has done lots of mahi in mental health services working in Peer Support and as a Consumer Engagement Advisor at Counties Manukau Health, and a PET facilitator for two mental health and addictions services in the community.
ruth.cheeseman@ember.org.nz