A TEAM of community drug workers is to work in GP surgeries in Bolton to help provide expert care for substance misusers.

Around 70 per cent of people with drug problems first seek help from their local GP.

And to help provide expert on-the-spot care, three full-time drug liaison workers have taken up their posts at GP practices throughout the town.

In addition to working within health centres and clinics, the workers, employed by Community Healthcare Bolton NHS Trust, will be providing two open access sessions for GPs who do not have a worker assigned to their surgery but need to call on their expertise.

As well as providing a comprehensive package to drug misusers and their families, the three-strong team will be responsible for delivering the home detoxification service.

Head of the substance misuse service, Gary Oulds, said: "These are very positive developments within the service. Bolton is recognised as a progressive service and one which is delivering the service to those in greatest need in a highly effective way."

If you or any member of your family has a drug problem which is not being treated, contact the Community Drug Team on 387129.