Team Meet & Greet: Jessica
Jessica / Rialto Community Drug Team
Meet Jessica: Harm Reduction Community Worker with Rialto Community Drug Team
We recently had the chance to chat with Jessica, a Harm Reduction Community Worker who’s part of the Rialto Community Drug Team, working out of St Andrew’s. She’s passionate about supporting recovery and harm reduction through community engagement. Here’s what she had to share about her work and experiences so far:
1. Tell us a bit about yourself – What’s your role at St Andrew’s, and which project are you involved with?
Hi, my name is Jessica, and I’m the Harm Reduction Community Worker at St Andrew’s. I’ve recently joined the Recovery Community Development Team (RCDT) and have been in the role for just over three months. I’m currently settling in, getting to know the local area, and starting to build relationships within the community.
2. Can you give us an overview of what your project does within the centre?
The RCDT focuses on strengthening and supporting recovery in the wider community. We work to connect individuals with recovery resources, create opportunities for peer support, and promote harm reduction through outreach and community engagement. A big part of the work involves listening to what the community needs and building meaningful, sustainable connections.
3. What have been some recent highlights or challenges in your role?
A recent highlight has been starting to map out the local community—getting familiar with key services, meeting with other projects in the area, and identifying areas where support is most needed. It’s exciting to see the potential for connection and collaboration.
As I’m still new in post, one of the challenges has been getting up to speed with everything quickly, but the team has been really supportive.
4. For anyone interested in learning more or getting involved with your project, what’s the best way to get in touch?
If you'd like to learn more about the RCDT or get involved, feel free to reach out through the main St Andrew’s office, via the website, or contact me directly at Jessica@rcdt.ie. I’m always happy to have a chat about harm reduction and community.
5. Lastly, do you have a fun fact, favourite memory, or something that’s inspired you lately that you’d like to share with our readers?
Something that’s inspired me lately is the resilience I’ve seen in the community. Even in the face of challenges, people are showing up, supporting each other, and sharing their stories. It’s a powerful reminder of why community-led recovery work is so important.
If you’d like to connect with Jessica or learn more about the Rialto Community Drug Team’s recovery and harm reduction efforts, don’t hesitate to reach out. Her energy and dedication are already making a meaningful difference in the community.