Health Minister Edwin Poots has officially opened a new recovery centre in Ballywalter.

The centre, which is run by Forum for Alcohol and Substance Abuse (FASA) will operate as a recovery model for those who have experienced drug and alcohol misuse or mental health issues.

Speaking at the opening, Minister Poots said the Eden Village Recovery Centre would offer community-driven frontline action and deliver practical support to individuals in crisis as well as their families.

He continued: "There are clear links between substance misuse, poor mental health, suicide and self harm - all of which, unfortunately, are too prevalent in our society.

"Tackling alcohol and drug misuse continues to be one of my key priorities as Health Minister. These deeply embedded problems will take time to put right. Statutory services clearly have an important role, but equally encouraging is the way that community groups like FASA continue to rise to this particular challenge. Integrated practice and collaborative working across sectors is undoubtedly the way forward."

Aimed at prevention, early intervention and ongoing support, the centre offers complementary therapies and counselling, as well as other facilities such as a bookshop, 'upcycling' furniture shop, employability programmes and a 'one-stop-shop' youth drop-in service.

Making the most of its rural Ballywalter location, there are also opportunities for outdoor recreational and physical activity such as horticulture and gardening.

Mr Poots added: "I am pleased to have had the opportunity to tour the site and meet with staff, volunteers and service users. This is an excellent recovery centre and I am greatly impressed by the range of services and facilities on offer here. The mental health benefits of outdoor work are widely recognised and can include improved mental health through a sense of purpose and achievement; the opportunity to connect with others; to acquire new skills and connect with nature.

"FASA's Eden Village is an exciting, unique development that promotes recovery and enables its service users to improve both their physical and mental health and wellbeing. In addition, it is hoped that it will help facilitate early intervention to prevent more people becoming suicidal and needing crisis response."

(JP/CD)