Dundee launch for new scheme to help people and communities affected by substance misuse
Led by Equally Well, the Dundee Health and Social Care Partnership, Dundee City Council and the voluntary sector have joined forces in Lochee to launch the Recovery Friendly Community initiative.
A new scheme to help communities affected by substance misuse is being piloted in a Dundee neighbourhood.
The Recovery Friendly Community initiative brings together a number of agencies in Lochee, after a number of residents highlighted it as an issue.
Councillor Ken Lynn, vice chair of the Integrated Joint Board, said: "When we have asked people in Lochee what the worst aspect of living in the area is, substance misuse consistently comes out at or near the top.
"So Recovery Friendly Lochee will take an all-inclusive approach to addressing the issue and improving community wellbeing by making sure that support is easy to get to at a local level. "This in turn helps to create a sense of belonging and ownership of where they stay."
Studies have shown that people who misuse alcohol and/or drugs have a greater chance of sustained recovery if their community is supportive of their efforts.
The official launch of the initiative will take place on Saturday, September 10, from 10am to 2pm at Lochee Parish Church.
The event will give visitors a chance to find out what local people and services said about what a Recovery Friendly Lochee should look like during a community consultation held earlier this year, and progress made with the initiative to date.