Families on the Frontline Conference

Council alcohol and drugs spokesperson Councillor Nadia El-Nakla was among the speakers at a major conference in Dundee.

Families on the Frontline is bringing together families and those delivering and influencing treatment, care and support services.

The two-day conference, which continues today, has been organised by the charity Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs.

Day one was attended by family members who are affected by someone else’s alcohol or drug use, including family members living in Dundee, and those concerned about a loved one living in Dundee.

Cllr El-Nakla, who chaired the opening session, said: “Families and friends are playing a critical role in the harm reduction of alcohol and drugs not just in their own communities but across Scotland. In many cases families can be a life-line for their loved one, who is suffering from addiction; managing recovery and relapse without any outside support. This puts a huge strain on the individual & the family. I can't imagine any other treatment that relies so heavily on families.

“The conference provides an invaluable opportunity for family members to connect with each other, learn from one another and the speakers, and to develop and strengthen support for families in Dundee.

“I was delighted to be asked to share my own lived experience and am grateful to all those who attended yesterday for their honest and insightful contributions.”

The second day of the conference brings together family members and professionals in a “masterclass” format to help services strengthen family support and family inclusive practice by sharing positive and practical tips.