Raising awareness of drug and alcohol services in Dundee

Representatives from the Dundee Alcohol and Drug Partnership (ADP) and Dundee Health and Social Care Partnership visited Hillcrest Futures’ drug and alcohol support service in Dundee last week to find out more about the charity and meet people who access the service.

The visit took place at Hillcrest Futures’ Cairn Centre, a drop in hub and place of contact for people to get the help and support they need to overcome substance misuse.

Hillcrest Futures managing director Joy Dunlop explained: “We offer a wide variety of alcohol and drug services at the Cairn Centre that focus on prevention, protection, resilience and recovery.

“The representatives were given a tour of the building, meeting the staff behind the services as well as individuals with lived experiences, hearing about the challenges, opportunities and successes from those in recovery.

“We encourage and value the input of people who access support to get involved in and help develop our services. One of the ways we do this is through facilitating peer work where people with lived experience provide support to others in a similar situation. Through sharing experiences with each other it gives an opportunity for mutual learning and growth.”

Simon Little, independent chairman of the Dundee ADP commented: “It was very helpful to hear the views of those with lived experience and carers; especially on how recovery can be fostered and services strengthened. Although there are many challenges I am optimistic for the future, if we work closely together.”

The Cairn Centre, located at 12 Rattray Street, Dundee is open Sunday to Friday. To find out more visit www.hillcrestfutures.org.uk.

Pictured, from left: David Lynch, chief officer, Dundee Health and Social Care Partnership; Simon Little, independent chairman, Dundee ADP; Joy Dunlop, managing director, Hillcrest Futures; Alastair Gardiner, head of service, Hillcrest Futures.