THEY say crime doesn't pay and drug dealers in the Newton-le-Willows area of St Helens are learning this lesson the hard way as their assets are being seized and used to benefit a Newton-based family support service.

Footsteps, which helps family members cope with the stress caused by living with a drug user, is one of only 19 organisations across the UK to have received a grant from the £150,000 available as part of the government's Community Action on Drugs scheme.

Often, the heartache that drug-users families suffer can be forgotten when people think about drugs, but trained volunteers at Footsteps offer confidential listening, information and support sessions, helping individuals to explore the options surrounding their particular situation.

The grant from Drugscope will be used to run drug information courses for anyone in Newton or Haydock. Each course will last for five weeks and the first is due to start at Newton Family and Community Centre in September, with a second in Haydock early next year.

The group recently moved to Newton College from its previous home at the Newton Family and Community Centre and the centre's great generosity has enabled Footsteps to start up in a dedicated office with a direct telephone line. Moreover, the larger size of the college means that people to feel less conspicuous when attending sessions.

And organisers have stressed that the support of Newton Family Community Centre has been greatly appreciated by everyone at Footsteps.

There is a drop-in every Monday between 10am and 2pm and if people need to see somebody at any other time it can be arranged. The message from Footsteps is simple: "Don't suffer on your own. Footsteps can support you and help you get your life back on track."

For more information, contact Footsteps at Newton College, Crow Lane East, Newton-le-Willows on (01744) 623755 or at 45 Wilson Patten Street, Warrington on (01925) 653261. There is also a 24 hour helpline which can be reached on 08457 023 867.