A SELF-HELP anti-drugs support group set up by parents has a new base in Huddersfield.

The group - founded by Brighouse mother Christine Woodley - has for years run a helpline for worried parents who fear their children may have a drug problem.

And the move comes at a time when an experienced drugs worker believes there are thousands of people in Huddersfield with drug problems.

Now, Kirklees Parents And Relatives Support Group (Drugs) has a home near the town centre.

The address is not being widely publicised, to protect the confidentiality of people using the group.

But people can phone up and arrange to go.

The centre has books, pamphlets and videos on all aspects of drugs.

It also offers one-to-one counselling, along with group sessions where people can talk to other parents going through the same traumas - and even the chance to try alternative therapies, so people can learn to relax once more.

Drop-in days are Tuesdays and group meetings are on Thursday evenings.

Christine said: "The centre is for anyone - parents, relatives or friends - of someone who has a drug problem or is concerned about drugs.

"Many parents think they are the only ones going through this agony and have no-one to turn to for help.

"Many people have relatives with drug problems. Our group gives them the chance to talk to others in the same situation."

Committee member Marcia Bell said: "You can sit in the group, pour your heart out and know the other people in that room understand what you are going through.

"You also discover the different ways other people have tried to get their children off drugs.

"This group is a vital lifeline for most of the people who use it."

Chrstine said: "The bigger we grow, the more powerful voice we have when it comes to improving drugs services.

"But we are predominantly somewhere for parents to meet to give them help, advice and support.

Carole Dobson, an anti-drugs worker in Huddersfield for more than 15 years, said: "There are probably thousands of people in Huddersfield with drug problems, but many do not come forward for help.

"The parents' group received 1,250 calls for help last year. That's probably only the tip of the iceberg."

* The helpline numbers are 01484 722223 and 01484 431664.