Carl helping others to learn from his mistakes

Carl Doyle recalls how drugs and drink misuse led to him being in and out of prison before he sought help.

He is now a qualified substance misuse worker and an administrator with the West Sussex Drugs and Alcohol Action Team's Family and Friends Network.

The 13-minute movie '“ Every Day A New Beginning '“ has been made by the network with Company Paradiso, a not-for-profit production company.

It aims to highlight the work of the network and its six drop-in centres, such as the one where Carl works in The Hub Community Centre, in Canada Grove, which is open between 12.30pm and 2pm on Thursdays.

The centre is staffed by volunteers who help and support people affected by a relative or friend's misuse of alcohol or drugs, both legal and illegal.

Carl said: "With Every Day A New Beginning, we want to show people they are not alone. There are people out there facing similar difficult issues and confidential support is available from sympathetic and non- judgmental volunteers."

Cllr John de Mierre, the county council's cabinet member for adult services, said: "People can feel terribly alone when they are close to someone who misuses drugs or alcohol.

"Every Day A New Beginning shows there is somewhere for them to go. It points out there are friends they can talk to."

He praised the network for offering a pioneering service, which was being copied around the country.

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