Last updated at 17:28, Friday, 08 March 2013

HELP for those addicted to drugs and alcohol is moving away from an over-reliance on prescribed medication to take advantage of a more rounded community support system.

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That was the message of a “conversation cafe” event held by Unity, NHS provider of such services across Cumbria.

The team invited local community groups, charities and third sector organisations to discuss how they could work together to provide the best support to those in recovery.

Held at The Forum in Barrow, the event saw service users past and present contribute their views.

Keith Murphy, Unity service manager with responsibility for Barrow and South Cumbria, said: “Drug and alcohol services have historically been led by the use of medication.

“What we aim to achieve and will achieve is a move away from the reliance on prescribing. Now there’s an emphasis on supporting people through the recovery journey, using community assets and looking at the person as a whole.

“The benefits are that people in recovery are able to contribute more and more to their local communities, to build on their strengths and develop links with their families and to access education, training and work.”

Other agencies who attended included Mind, Cumbria Alcohol and Drug Advisory Service, health and social care provider, Turning Point, and Barrow support group, New Roots.

Mr Murphy said working with community teams was vital to Unity’s success in helping those with addictions.

Bob Howarth is general secretary and vice chairman of New Roots, a self-help drop-in service for those in recovery from drug and alcohol addictions.

He said: “I think this is a great improvement from the past, that the drug agencies will be following through and will be able to signpost to groups like New Roots. That is a great leap forward.

“With support, you’re far more likely to succeed, and that’s what we can offer.”

First published at 16:02, Friday, 08 March 2013
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk