A NEW initiative to help people struggling with addictions of various kinds got under way this week. 

Living Free will take the form of a support group, overseen by staff from the West Devon-based Gilead Foundation, which has more than 20 years' experience in the field. 

The group has come about as a result of discussions between church ministers in the town and Dr Nick Woodall from Okehampton Medical Centre, who recognised that although there were plenty of places for people to be referred, there was no support group locally to back this up.

Dr Woodall said: 'There has been a need in Okehampton for this group for a number of years. 

'There will be people reading this article who either feel it might offer them support, or know of someone in need of such support.

'I would encourage those people to make use of this group, or cut out this article and pass it to those for whom they are concerned.'

Living Free is open to all those who would like to break free from addictions of any kind. 

As well as structured discussion there will also be a social aspect to the group with the aim of developing a supportive community. 

Although it has an underlying Christian philosophy, the sessions will not have any religious content and faith will not be mentioned unless people attending bring it up.

The group will meet on Wednesdays at 7.30pm in Okehampton.

For more details on where the group will meet, telephone Laura Alm on 01837 851240.