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Community Substance Misuse Team join youth and families in Midwest to launch reflective book

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Community Substance Misuse Team join youth and families in Midwest to launch reflective book. Pitcured is Kirsteen Laing, Social Worker for Community Substance Misuse Team (CSMT) and lead in co-creating the book

Clondalkin Addiction Support Programme’s Community Substance Misuse Team launches reflective book co-created with young people and families across the Midwest

Clondalkin Addiction Support Programme's Community Substance Misuse Team launches reflective book co-created with young people and families across the Midwest
Since 2012, CSMT has provided free, confidential, and non-judgemental outreach services to young people aged 13–23 and their families impacted by substance misuse

Clondalkin Addiction Support Programme (CASP) is set to celebrate its 30th anniversary, and marking the milestone, the Limerick-based Community Substance Misuse Team (CSMT) staff have partnered with young people and families they support across the Midwest to release ‘Keep it Simple’, a unique and inspiring book co-created by the Community Substance Misuse Team (CSMT) staff and the young people and families they support across the Midwest.

Since 2012, CSMT has provided free, confidential, and non-judgemental outreach services to young people aged 13–23 and their families impacted by substance misuse across the Midwest. Funded by the Mid-West Regional Drug and Alcohol Forum (MWRDAF), and delivered by CASP, the team works with youth centres, community organisations, and safe meeting spaces, providing early intervention, coping strategies, and life skills support.

Over the years, CSMT has supported many young people in processing life’s challenges, and one recurring tool has proven especially powerful—writing.


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“Keep it Simple was created with these individuals in mind,” says Kirsteen Laing, CSMT Social Worker. “We’ve seen how journaling, drawing, and creative expression can help people reflect, manage emotions, and recognise their own growth.”

The book includes guided prompts, open space for reflection, and creative contributions from CSMT service users, including photography, illustrations, personal quotes, and insights. Co-designed through workshops and creative sessions, the publication is both a tool for self-reflection and a celebration of resilience.

“This isn’t just a journal—it’s a resource created with young people, not just for them,” adds Kirsteen. “It reflects their creativity, courage, and capacity for change.”

The Keep it Simple book launch is an integral part of CASP’s 30th anniversary event, celebrating three decades of service to communities affected by addiction.

“CASP has always believed in meeting people where they’re at, and walking alongside them,” says Sharon Harty, CASP CEO. “This book perfectly reflects that ethos—it’s collaborative, practical, and grounded in real experience.” Sharon thanked our sponsor on this initiative, UMR Group who are a family-owned operation, the core of their business is built around metal recycling, waste management and demolition and regular supporters of local community development.

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