Fears virus could set back drug fight

THE coronavirus crisis is affecting people in every sector of society – and for one recover i ng Du ndee heroin addict it has brought extra misery.

Andy, 44, who asked us not to use his surname, said he was concerned the crisis could force him back into addiction.

He said: “I have been told that my drug worker won’t see me face-toface at the present time.

“I got a text to this effect and it is really worrying me. I am now working and life is going very well, but this is causing me huge concern

“I’m also worried that I’m not going to be able to get my methadone on a daily basis.”

Andy added: “I have been i n recovery now for 18 months and I am genuinely very concerned that if my support is stopped and methadone is difficult for me to get, that I will find myself turning to street drugs again.

“That is the last thing I want to happen, but right now I’m very unclear about what is happening.

“I have also spoken to other people in recovery and they are worried too. We have come a long way in Dundee recently i n tackling our drug addiction crisis and I would hate to see this put all the good work backwards.”

Dave Barrie, of We Are With You, former ly Addaction, said he wanted to reassure anyone in recovery that support and help was still there for everyone who needs it.

Dave said: “People must not worry. Support is still available and people will still be able to get their methadone.

“All pharmacies are, so far, staying open. They are in a good position to give out advice and guidance and they will be advising people what restrictions are in place and how to go about getting their prescriptions.

“We are also still seeing people face-to-face and just taking sensible precautions.

“Where possible, people should use phone contact. We know that isn’t always possible, but we have been buying a supply of small mobile phones to give to people who don’t have one of their own and who really need to keep in touch with the relevant support.”

Dave added: “Many addicts and recovering addicts are among the most vulnerable in our society and we are urging them to follow government guidance regarding hand washing and hygiene in general.

“We are also advising people to try to reduce their social contact where possible.

“This is a very challenging time, but we are doing everything we can to support people and to make sure this doesn’t set back the fight against drugs in Dundee.”

Dave Barrie