Jo writes, “Alcohol is the big problem in Morayshire – more of a problem than drugs.  Alcohol dependence is more than twice the national average so I knew I had to do something.  I became a voluntary Drug Educator for Hope UK a couple of years ago and jumped at the chance to represent Hope UK as a Local Project Worker.

I began by identifying the need for drug education in the Highlands and Islands.  I made contact with the Moray Alcohol and Drug Partnership, and attended a meeting in April. 

A press release has been produced for the Christians Together website for the Highlands and Islands.  This website also has links with Moray and all of the shires within the Highlands. A press release was also sent to various local newspapers across the area.  

I’ve delivered a number of drug awareness sessions including a presentation to the Quarriers Carers Support team – a great opportunity to provide alcohol awareness to carers.  

I plan to contact Street Pastors and the Drug and Alcohol Action Teams in Inverness and Aberdeen over the next few weeks as well as churches in these areas. 

I also keep in touch with Hope UK’s voluntary Drug Educators in Scotland based in North Lanark, Edinburgh, Nairn and Moray.”

Click here for the latest news from Scotland.  Please contact Jo at j.pickford@hopeuk.org  if you would like a drug and alcohol awareness session for your group.