Addiction-aid charity moves in as problem cases rise

Swanswell, which supports families and other people who care for those with addiction problems, is setting up a service which will offer practical advice, information and assistance.

One of the charity's trustees is television presenter Maggie Philbin, who took on the role after going through personal experience of supporting a loved one through alcohol misuse.

She said: "When someone has a problem with alcohol or drugs, the lives of those around them are deeply affected.

"Finding good knowledgeable help isn't always as straightforward as you might think.

"Even among health professionals there can be huge ignorance of how friends, relatives and workmates can act to improve their lives and that of the person using alcohol or drugs.

"Getting the right advice and support is quite literally lifesaving."

The latest NHS and council figures show that 18.9 per cent of adults in Barnsley are drinking at hazardous levels and there are 1,726 problematic drug users. Swanswell estimates that there is at least one carer for each addict.

A spokesman said: "Swanswell has a strong track record of working with carers, friends and families of those experiencing difficulties with their drug and alcohol use.

"The new carers support service in Barnsley is at the cutting edge of substance user treatment and will provide essential emotional and practical support to carers.

"Each client will receive a tailored programme to meet their needs and support services range from group sessions providing advice and information to counselling and training which will build confidence and develop skills."

The charity said a recent study by the National Treatment Agency showed supporting carers and involving them in treatment could save the NHS and other state services around 4,000 for each addict.

Carers can access Swanswell's new support service through a telephone helpline on 01226 705932 or can ask for a referral from their GP.