Families in Forth Valley, affected by drugs and alcohol are to get extra support to help them on the road to recovery. A new scheme being funded by the three local authorities – Falkirk, Stirling and Clackmannanshire – will see a range of services being introduced, including support over a telephone or face to face discussions. The councils will work together through their Alcohol and Drug Partnerships.

It is estimated that there are 60,000 people who are drinking at harmful levels in Forth Valley, and 2,000 people who are affected by drug addiction. Referrals to the Forth Valley Family Support Service will be made from existing addiction services, GPs, community workers or through self-referral, and the programme will be delivered by an organisation known as Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs (Scottish Families) who see first hand some of the problems people face through substance misuse, such as anxiety, stigma, an unrecognised caring role and financial difficulties.

NHS Forth Valley Alcohol and Drug Co-ordinator Elaine Lawlor said: “People with substance misuse problems can and do recover and go on to lead healthy and full lives. Family members can play an important role and research has shown that recovery from alcohol and drug addiction is more achievable with the help of a supportive family network.”

To help implement the new support service two additional posts have been created – a Family Support Development Officer and a Family Support Worker. Not only will they help families cope with the impact of substance misuse but also offer advocacy support and evidence-based interventions at community level.

The Forth Valley Family Support service can be contacted via a helpline on 08080 101011, or email fvfamilies@sfad.org.uk