HELP is at hand for the parents and carers of people mis-using drugs in Swindon.

The town's Druglink agency, based in Victoria Road, received 1,300 new referrals for its counselling services last year mainly from people suffering from heroin addiction, but also those hooked on crack, cannabis and amphetamine.

As a consequence the agency, which sees an average 35 people affected by drug abuse a day, is about to run a support group to empower parents and carers with the facts about drugs use, its effects and risks.

The group will also offer training to members to help them recognise the signs and symptoms of drug overdose and what to do in an emergency to prevent drug related deaths.

Based at the Well Woman Centre in Milton Road, the group will cater for both men and women. It starts on Tuesday, April 8 and will meet from 6-7.30pm on Tuesdays.

Druglink family support worker Gina Moroney and co-facilitator Linda Wyatt are keen to help parents and carers understand the difference between reality and myth.

Gina said: "The group will offer support, develop insight and awareness by enabling members to discover appropriate coping skills for them to manage their problems by clarifying their attitudes and behaviour towards the drug use.

"Family members often feel trapped by their situation, powerless and isolated and suffering deep anxiety and depression.

"Very often they can be caught up in a cycle of feeling swamped. Through wanting their loved ones to stop misusing drugs there is a tendency to take on their problems which can render the drug mis-user helpless, denouncing any responsibility rather than work things out for themselves. In the family member this can lead to further confusion and anxiety as the cycle deepens."

The group will look at how to take a step back by setting firmer boundaries and empower parents and carers to acknowledge responsibility for their own well being.

Topics such as anger management, building self-esteem, anxiety reduction and relaxation, communication and negotiation skills will be offered within a safe environment supported by professional supervision. If you are interested in joining the group contact Gina Moroney or Linda Wyatt (co-facilitator) at Druglink on Swindon 610133.