An innovative project that has helped combat drug and alcohol use in Irvine is set to be expanded in other North Ayrshire communities.
Over the last 18 months, police officers in the region have been accompanied on around 12 patrols by recovery workers from Turning Point Scotland's Ayrshire Prevention, Early Intervention and Recovery Service (PEAR).
The aim has been to provide support tor people battling alcohol and drug problems, with practioners with personal experience ready to pass on vital information and advice about the help available to users.
The joint patrols also aim to break down stigma surrounding the issues by engaging with members of the public to build a greater understanding of problematic substance use as a health condition.
Having originally started in town centres, the patrols have since moved into housing estates and local communities – with the majority in Irvine.
Now plans are in place to increase the frequency of patrols in other North Ayrshire towns over the coming year.
Sergeant Raymond Ferguson, of Police Scotland’s Irvine locality policing team, said his officers have a better understanding around alcohol and drug use and the local support available as a result of the patrols.
He said: "Even those not involved in the patrols are now more confident in referring anyone they encounter who is need of some help to the PEAR Service, thanks to the relationships the patrols have helped us to build with Turning Point Scotland staff.
"Being out and about with the recovery workers has also opened our eyes to areas where people may be using drugs, meaning we can keep an eye out in those areas for anyone who may be in need of some help.
"It also has the added benefit of building trust in our officers, as many people with addiction issues may have previously been fearful or suspicious of the police.
“Putting people with addictions in jail is not solving the problem of drugs deaths and the devastating effects of those on families and our communities.
"Most of those struggling with problematic drug or alcohol us did not choose that lifestyle, and don’t want to continue that lifestyle. They just need some help to get out of it, and ensuring they can access support at the right time is crucial.”
Leanne Kerr, assistant service coordinator of Turning Point Scotland’s PEAR Service, said the project plays a huge part in getting information about support out to those who may not have known where to turn previously.
She added: “Because our Peer Practitioners have lived experience, this helps to create a level of trust in the support on offer.
"Speaking to someone who understands what it is like to have their life impacted by alcohol and/or other drug use, and realising that recovery really is possible, can make a huge difference to someone who may be struggling."
The PEAR service is a partner organisation of North Ayrshire health and social care partnership, with funding for the service being provided by North Ayrshire alcohol and drug partnership (NAADP).
Billy Brotherston, independent chair of NAADP, said: “In 2020, there were 39 drug-related deaths recorded in North Ayrshire alone.
"Reducing the stigma of drug and alcohol misuse is crucial in helping those who are struggling with a substance use disorder."
The PEAR service is based in Stevenston. For more information, visit www.turningpointscotland.com/north-ayrshire-pear or call (01294) 447407. Alternatively, email northayrshireinfo@turningpointscotland.com
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