A NEWLY-merged alcohol and drug service funded by Sandwell Council’s public health department is set to launch next month.

The service will be run by Cranstoun Sandwell – following a merger between national alcohol and drug recover charities Cranstoun and Swanswell – and offer treatment and recovery services.

Cranstoun’s director of operations Peter Glass said: “Cranstoun are very excited to continue to deliver the substance misuse services in Sandwell.

“We will keep developing our partnership approach and build on the already excellent relationships we have in Sandwell.”

A key focus of the new service, which will launch on February 1, will be to prevent alcohol and drug misuse through promoting a self-help approach.

Councillor Elaine Costigan, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for public health and protection, added: “This will make sure we continue giving excellent levels of support to help people recover from alcohol and drug dependence.

“It will also help prevent people developing habits that can affect their health and wellbeing.”

For more information on how to access alcohol and drug support in the borough visit www.healthysandwell.co.uk or call 0121 553 1333.