LOCAL councillor Rosemary Liewald this week praised the work of the Fife Alcohol Support Service which offers support to many people in the Cowdenbeath-Lochgelly area suffering from alcohol and substance misuse related issues.

The Lochgelly, Benarty and Cardenden councillor attended the AGM of FASS, which has served the people of Fife since 1977, as vice chair of the IJB “The Joint Health and Social Care Board” and she was impressed with the work of the organisation which helps so many people.

Said Councillor Liewald: "I was able to hear at first hand the valuable and outstanding work which is done at grass roots level all over Fife and hear some of the personal stories of those who have gained such benefit from the input of its counsellors.

"The charity provides a range of services designed to meet the special needs of vulnerable people within the community who are affected by alcohol-related problems and substance misuse.

"FASS also provides help for carers of individuals in difficulty and for people who are socially isolated and vulnerable".

FASS was formed to provide an alcohol counselling service in Fife and this remains a primary service of the charity to this day.

Added Ms Liewald: "This specialist therapeutic help for people suffering excessive drinking, dependency, or binge drinking, also addresses the inter-relationship between drinking and mental health, trauma, relationships, bereavement and other issues in life.

"FASS was early in recognising the often complex nature of alcohol-related problems and the need to develop services appropriate to people's needs.

"Most people coming for help with their drinking either refer themselves or come via their GP. However, the service isn't just for drinkers; it also helps partners and other family members. FASS Alcohol Counselling is provided in many Health Centres, Surgeries and community locations over the whole county".

In 2015, Fife Community Drug Service (FCDS) merged with FASS. The Community Drug Service provides advice and assertive outreach support for individuals, families and their carers. This is specialist help for Opiate use and use of ‘recreational drugs’ including Benzodiazepines, Cocaine and Amphetamines. It’s also for people misusing Prescribed Medications.

FASS is also active in the community, seeking to inform and educate about the scale and impact of alcohol and substance misuse. The charity promotes research and provides training in regard to prevention; early diagnosis and treatment; and sustainable recovery from alcohol-related problems and substance misuse.

The Vision of FASS aims to improve the quality of life of people in Fife who are affected by alcohol-related problems, substance misuse or adverse health & social well-being.

The Mission is that through equitable, accessible, Fife wide services, FASS will provide information and early interventions, psycho-social counselling and recovery support, for individuals and families affected by alcohol-related problems, substance misuse or adverse health & social well-being, whilst maintaining effective relationships with all relevant organisations.