DRUG users who are trying to get their lives back on track are receiving valuable help thanks to a new community spirit on a Chorley housing estate.

Residents living in Clayton Brook have come forward to learn new skills as counsellors.

Six people volunteered during the first three weeks of the Clayton Brook Substance Use Project - a joint venture by Chorley and South Ribble NHS Trust, North British Housing Association and the Drugs Challenge Fund.

It forms part of the new "Community House" adding to the feeling of community spirit on the estate since the launch of other successful groups like the food co-operative and the community group.

The volunteers successfully completed a CENTRA introduction to counselling skills course with the help of Runshaw College.

This has enabled them to develop their listening skills - and the volunteers have expressed real enthusiasm.

One volunteer Stephanie Morrison said: "No-one really knew each other before the course. We work well as a group."

Another, Vicky Howden commented: "I intend to use this as a basis for further counselling qualifications or work later on.

And another, Kayla Burslam added: "We have fought through the apathy on the estate and have come through on the other side."

Drugline, Chorley Health Promotion Unit and Chorley Alcohol Information Centre also offered further training.

Now the volunteers can offer help to drug users who wish to go back into employment, education and social activities, for example.

They can also give advice on the help available for users, their families and friends. Residents of Clayton Brook can drop into the Community House, 72 Tunley Holme, Clayton Brook, on Monday (10am-1pm); Wednesday (1pm-3.30pm); and Thursday (6pm-9pm).

An alcohol counsellor is available Thursday (1pm-3.30pm), or you can make an appointment for another time. All information is treated in confidence.

Project worker Elaine Durkin said: "I wouldn't say there is a particular problem with Clayton Brook. The reason the project is here is because the other groups exist on the estate.

"The help is not just for young people, it is across the board and it is for alcohol use as well."

Anyone wanting more information can contact Elaine on 01772 334867.

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