FORMER volunteers and users of rehabilitation service Malvern Pathways have slammed the decision to close its doors, and outsource the programme to GP surgeries and community premises by another company.

It used to be located in Priory Road, but after its lease ran out on the property, Swanswell took over the delivery of the service but will not have a centralised, drop-in office. Instead its workers will be based at GP surgeries and other locations throughout Malvern.

Stuart Knowles, of Sherrards Green, is a recovering heroin addict who was helped with his addiction by Pathways, and says people are "outraged" by the decision.

The 46 year-old said: "Malvern Pathways was a centralised base for helping people with addictions and mental health problems.

"It was open Monday to Friday, and was used frequently by people as their first point of contact for seeking help through the drop-in service, to deal with occurring or unforeseen problems.

"This could have pulled the rug from underneath people who were doing well on their programmes. A lot of service users are outraged by this.

"Pathways really helped me out, and helped me turn my heroin addiction around. We want somewhere to drop in from time to time when times are hard, like we had before. It's ridiculous that they've taken this service away."

Swanswell states delivering the service this way, rather than a centralised hub, increases the number of people it sees.

A spokeswoman said: "Using this approach, we’re pleased to be able to increase the amount of face-to-face time which is available to help people in the Malvern area.

"Providing community-based access helps with service engagement and confidentiality, reducing the stigma of attending a drug or alcohol service’s office.

"Our experience shows us this has a positive impact on service users’ integration into the community and can help people achieve a sustainable recovery."

Lin Lincoln, 52, of Malvern, is a former service user and volunteer of Pathways, who says GP surgeries will be put under more strain under Swanswell's plans, and having to book appointments may put off people seeking in coming forward.

She said: "This service is essential.

"When someone who has substance dependably reaches out for help, it's essential they are helped there and then, otherwise they lose momentum and could be lost forever.

"The new format, held at GP surgeries, puts more strain on GPs."

A spokeswoman for Swanswell confirmed one-to-one sessions will be held Monday to Friday at community locations including Malvern Cube and Malvern Library.

Pathways' lease with Malvern Hills District Council expired on April 1.

As well as rehabilitation, Pathways offered other services such as acupuncture, prescription distribution and offered advice on issues such as housing.