A NEW training programme has been launched to help challenge stigma in Inverclyde.

The online course focuses on issues that people with problematic alcohol and drug use, and their families, face.

It was funded by the local Alcohol and Drugs Partnership (IADP) and developed by Inverclyde Resilience Network, a collaboration of third sector organisations and public sector partners, and hosted by CVS Inverclyde.

CVS Inverclyde partnerships facilitator Vicki Cloney said: “We know from the evidence that stigma kills people so we knew that we had to take action to help prevent that in Inverclyde.

“Much of the work was led by people with lived and living experience.

"We’ve all learned so much and this learning has gone directly into the training module.

"It’s another resource to help us make Inverclyde an even more caring and compassionate place.”

Kenny Leinster, chair of Inverclyde ADP, added: “Many families and communities in Inverclyde are affected by alcohol and drugs.

"People should be able to get the help they need but sometimes feel embarrassed or ashamed to ask for help when it comes to alcohol or drug use.

"The sooner we can eliminate that the easier it will become for people to access the support they want and need without feeling embarrassed or ashamed.

“This training is open to everyone and is online meaning it is widely accessible and I encourage people to take part and do your bit to challenge the stigma around alcohol and drugs.”

To find out more visit https://www.cvsinverclyde.org.uk