First Minister launches new toolkit with the help of charity

First Minister John Swinney was in Ayrshire as he launched a new toolkit to help make it easier for people affected by problematic substance use to gain and keep a job.

- STEPHEN BARK

Harbour Ayrshire, a charity dedicated to helping people recovering from addiction, based in Ayr, hosted the launch on Wednesday, June 18 after playing an integral part in the development of the toolkit.

Mr Swinney spoke with staff and volunteers at the charity during the launch and poignant, real life stories were shared highlighting the difference that the right support can make to an individual with an addiction.

The guidance has been published as part of the Scottish Government's National Mission and brings a range of information and advice together.

It includes specialist advice for potential employers on how to attract, recruit and support staff who have experience of problematic substance use as well as information for people with lived and living experience of problematic substance use on how to pursue a career in the drug and alcohol sector.