A HARD-HITTING campaign has been launched to raise awareness of a major drug and alcohol treatment service in Kirklees.

Lifeline Kirklees replaced the former service Unit 51 more than ten years ago and offers help and support to more than 3,000 people a year.

But officers are worried that many residents are still confused about where to go or who to contact if they feel drugs and alcohol are affecting the way they live their lives.

Chris Lawton, Community Service Manager for Lifeline Kirklees, said: "We are launching this awareness campaign because we believe it is very important that people know we are here and how we can help.

"Many of our clients are referred to us from the prison service, health service or through social services, but we want people to know that they can also self- refer.

"If people feel that drugs and alcohol are affecting their life then simply telephone us on 01484 353333 and we will do our best to offer treatment, guidance and support."

The new number is being advertised across Kirklees on buses, litter bins and in pubs.

People who ring in are assigned a worker who can direct the client to one of Lifeline's services.

These include preventative and harm reduction advice, treatment, relaxation, HIV and hepatitis C testing, diversionary activities, education and support in finding employment.

Mr Lawton said: "We deal with a huge number of people throughout the year but we know there are still people out there who need our help but are not sure how to get hold of us or know what we do.

"It is these people we are trying to reach."

Contact Ring Lifeline Kirklees on 01484 353333.