A service which provides support for young people affected by substance use in their family is being expanded to six new areas of Scotland.

The Routes youth programme, which is run by Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs (SFAD), offers one-to-one and group support to people aged 12 to 26 and currently operates in East and West Dunbartonshire.

Now SFAD has formed a partnership with six other charities, including Action for Children who will roll out the programme to Renfrewshire.

The expansion comes after the Scottish Government announced SFAD would receive £4 million earlier this year from the Whole Family Wellbeing Fund as part of the cross-government approach to tackling the drug deaths crisis.

Commenting, Natalie Don, MSP for Renfrewshire North and West, said:

“Young people living with a loved one who is using substances need to feel like they are not alone. It is important that that they have an opportunity to share their experiences, learn more about substance use, and explore how they can achieve their own goals.

“I welcome the Scottish Government’s understanding that they must not only help people who are facing problems with drugs, but also their family members. I am pleased that this funding will allow more young people in Renfrewshire to access this vital support.”