FASA delivers education, treatment and crisis intervention services particularly in relation to alcohol, drugs and other substance misuse, as well as suicide and self harm.
Mr McGimpsey said: “This new centre means that the people of Bangor will be able to benefit from the range of services that FASA delivers - services that have the potential to improve the quality of life and the health and well-being of this community.”
FASA takes a holistic approach to addressing issues for individuals, families and communities, and recognises the connection between substance misuse, suicide and self harm and their many underlying social and personal causes.
The Minister continued: “I want congratulate FASA on their achievement in opening this new centre. I also want to acknowledge the commitment and dedication of all the individuals, and community and voluntary organisation, such as FASA, who work in the substance misuse and suicide prevention fields.
“They perform very difficult and emotionally draining jobs, often with little recognition or reward, but they can have a real impact on the lives of some of the most vulnerable and at risk people in our society, and help to make our communities better places to live.”
Notes to Editors:
1. The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, through the Eastern Health and Social Services Board, the Belfast Trust, and the Eastern Drug and Alcohol Co-Ordination Team, currently funds FASA in support of the implementation of the “New Strategic Direction for Alcohol and Drugs” and “Protect Life – A Shared Vision”, and in response to local needs.
2. The new centre is located at 4 Queen’s Parade, Bangor. Tel: 028 9127 1322.
3. The New Strategic Direction for Alcohol and Drugs can be found at: www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/show_publications?txtid=17069 .
4. The Northern Ireland Suicide Prevention Strategy, “Protect Life – A Shared Vision” can be found at: www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/phnisuicidepreventionstrategy_action_plan-3.pdf
5. For all media queries, please contact Sarah Williams, DHSSPS Information Office on 028 9052 2841 or 07791 149246. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
