A NEW service for drugs users and their families has been launched in Bury.

The White House Project has been set up by the Bury Substance Misuse Service and offers alternative therapies for those taking stimulants as well as information, advice and support for their families.

The move by the Service, formerly Bury Drug and Alcohol Team, comes at a time when the latest crime surveys show that seizures of stimulants nationally are on the increase.

Based at Oddfellows House in Manchester Road, Bury, the White House Project will be available each Thursday between 10am and 1pm. It is primarily aimed at those taking stimulants such as ecstasy, cocaine, crack and amphetamines.

Substance Misuse worker Janet Lightfoot explained: This service will also be of benefit to anyone who has concerns or knowledge of a son, daughter, brother or sister or other family member who may be taking these stimulants.

The White House Project is also targeting those closest to the users. Janet continued: Basically, what we are doing is offering families of stimulant users as much information, support and advice as we can provide.

The treatment for users available under the new initiative involves alternative therapies geared towards relaxation.

Janet added: All the evidence and research suggests that cognitive behavioural therapy and talking therapies are effective methods of reducing both illicit drug use and physical, social harm that can often accompany stimulant use.

Oddfellows House will also act as a drop-in centre where visitors will be able to talk informally to substance misuse workers on any stimulant-related problems they may have.

Previously Bury Substance Misuse Service, jointly funded through the Primary Care Trust (PCT) and Drug Action Team, had to refer such clients to Trafford. The Bury Substance Misuse Service. with a 17-strong staff, is based in the towns Tenterden Street. For details call Janet, Paula or Tony on (0161) 253 6488.