Albion get behind positive new recovery project
ALBION players helped officially kick-off a new drug and alcohol recovery service targeted at supporting vulnerable people across Sandwell.
Baggies stars Liam O’Neil and James Morrison were on hand to offer their support to the new innovative IRiS (Integrating Recovery in Services) Sandwell partnership, which was launched earlier this year and will be run by Cranstoun, Inclusion and The Kaleidoscope Plus Group.
The service will be accessible to people worried about the impact of drugs and alcohol and will offer a range of services including health checks, advice and information, one-to-one support, peer support, recovery focused treatment plus much more.
IRiS Implementation Coordinator Arron Owen is delighted to have the service up and running and is encouraging those affected both directly and indirectly with drug and alcohol issues to get in touch.
He said: “We are really excited to be offering our services in Sandwell. Drug treatment costs Sandwell approximately £2.2 million but, it is estimated that drug users would cost the area £18.4 million in harm if no treatment was available for them so we will be working hard to make sure the residents of Sandwell are offered the best service.
"If you are struggling to cope with how much you’re drinking, the drugs that you’re taking, or are worried about someone you care about, then give IRiS a ring for a confidential and non-judgmental chat about how we can help.
"Alcohol and drugs can affect anyone from any background and there’s no shame in asking for help. Call us on 0121 553 1333.”
West Bromwich Albion Chief Executive Mark Jenkins is delighted the club can give their backing to such a service.
He said: “This is a really worthwhile project and one we are proud to support.
“The service promises to help a lot of people in the local area and that can only be a positive measure.
“We hope it goes on to be extremely beneficial to those in need.”
Leading Sandwell-based health and wellbeing charity, The Kaleidoscope Plus Group, will be working alongside IRiS to deliver housing and mental health support for the clients of IRiS.
The Kaleidoscope Plus Group Chief Executive Monica Shafaq said: “We are delighted to be working with Cranstoun on this fantastic service, which will in time prove to be a lifeline to so many people across Sandwell.
“It is also great to have the support of West Bromwich Albion too as we all continue to strive to improve the lives of those individuals living here in Sandwell.”
To find out more about the service and how it could help you, a friend or a family member call 0121 533 1333 or visit the website www.irispartnership.org
Pictured (left to right): Liam O’Neil, Louise Biffin (The Kaleidoscope Plus Group Finance Director), Arron Owen (IRiS Implementation Coordinator), Monica Shafaq (The Kaleidoscope Plus Group Chief Executive) and James Morrison.