Addaction is launching a new programme in Cornwall to work with veterans who need support with an alcohol or drug problem.

Right Turn is funded by The Forces in Mind Trust, which was set up to help ex-service men and women make a successful transition back to civilian life. After successfully working with veterans in the North of England, Scotland and North Somerset, the project will now be expanded to the Cornwall services, which has bases in Penzance, Redruth, St Austell, Truro, Liskeard and Bodmin.

The project was implemented in direct response to the growing number of veterans misusing drugs and alcohol who were accessing Addaction’s services. Through a specific programme of awareness-raising, education, treatment and peer support, Right Turn aims to reduce the use of drugs and/or alcohol amongst veterans.

Right Turn’s South West co-ordinator Mary Greener, said: “We understand that veterans may have experienced situations that have left a lasting, negative impact on their lives. That impact could include issues with alcohol and drug use or mental health.

“We know all too well that a military structure, which encourages comradeship, can also lead to a culture of heavy drinking. We work closely with the Royal British Legion and a number other services offering support to veterans. Our aim is to help minimise any obstacles to recovery.”

One person who has already benefited from Addaction's services is former aircraft engineer in the Royal Navy, Kevin Price, whose life took a dramatic turn when he left the forces and found himself being a full time carer for his wife.

Unable to cope with the change, he gradually started drinking more heavily and ended up divorced and separated from his family. Moving to Cornwall, Kevin spent several years drinking, often up to 30 units a day, while trying to hold down a job as a civilian aircraft contractor.

Although detoxing several times, he struggled to remain abstinent and repeatedly relapsed.

Being caught driving while three and a half times over the limit landed him in court, where he finally met someone from Addaction, who helped him get a place at residential rehabilitation centre Chy.

After 12 weeks at Chy, Kevin left abstinent of alcohol and armed with the education and skills to remain alcohol free for life.

Returning to Mansfield, Kevin has rebuilt his relationships with his children, moved back in with his wife Elaine and is looking forward to remarrying.