Drugs charity Addaction has said a statement about its methods made by a Helston councillor and reported in the Packet were "wholly inaccurate."

Councillor Rev Danny Reed was quoted in the Packet of May 24 as saying: “Those who I work with, who have drug issues, are being very much let down by Addaction, which is recommended by GPs to go to. You can only get onto their scheme if you can prove for three weeks a clean blood test – and many of these people with problems can’t get that clean blood test.”

However in a statement to the Packet this week, the group said: "Unfortunately this is wholly inaccurate.

"Addaction does not give people blood tests unless offering free tests for blood borne viruses such as hepatitis C. We do not work only with people who are drug-free. That would be counter to our purpose; most of our service users are with us for support to become drug/alcohol free.

"Addaction locally and nationally works with anybody affected by drug or alcohol use. This includes people using drugs or alcohol, their families, friends and affected others."

Addaction said people can walk into any of its six main offices around Cornwall and get support straight away without a referral from a GP or other organisation. It operates open, drop-in access, and its outreach team goes out and actively engages with people on the streets, as well as meeting people at GP surgeries, community centres and other venues around the county. Addaction makes sure to take the service to those who need it and not just expect them to ask for support.

The charity said the only screening that takes place is for clients who would benefit from an opiate substitute prescription, where they would have to provide two urine samples that actively contain opiates.

However, a prescription is just one of many types of treatment. Each person is unique and we provide a tailor-made package to support people to achieve their recovery goals. This package could include one-to-one support, relapse prevention, peer support and support groups. Addaction also makes sure people are empowered to go on and lead fulfilling lives in recovery by having a thriving life skills programme that explores everything from employment skills to art and cooking skills, as well as a popular volunteer scheme providing vital on the job experience for many.

Service manager Sue Clark said: “We’re not clear where Cllr Reed has gained this inaccurate information from, but we welcome him to visit the service and find out the facts.

“We work closely with the council, police and Safer Cornwall to address any anti-social behaviour issues, as well as organisations like the Job Centre and housing associations in order to work on longer term solutions for individuals. But we’d urge anyone who is affected by alcohol or drug issues not to be put off by these inaccurate comments and get in touch. No blood tests required.”

Anyone affected by drug or alcohol issues can call Addaction on 0333 2000 325 or visit addaction.org.uk or find us on Facebook.