Drug counselling group Focus has appointed a new board and is taking on more staff.

Executive Director Sandy Butterfield said the charity was looking for a counsellor and an administrative assistant to help her out.

And she revealed Focus was developing innovative techniques to get people off drugs.

She said some clients had poor maths and English skills which affected self-esteem.

"They have problems in getting a job so the easiest thing is to use and sell drugs."

Extra help in life skills can be a breakthrough factor helping people decide to get clean said Ms Butterfield.

"We are meeting the clients where they are and developing things from there."

She said clients were requesting more social activities, something which was often lacking in their lives.

Ms Butterfield said some had never had a formal meal out or seen a play.

Sport and cultural activities such as singing will be expanded but she said the daily programme would continue.

This consists of breakfast, devotion, general knowledge (reading a newspaper), watching TV, group sessions, lunch and individual counselling.

The charity on Union Street has around 23 clients. Ms Butterfield refuted charges the charity simply provided a place for addicts to rest for a few hours before returning to the street.

She said: "This is a club house. It's the only place for them to come.

"This is what it's for. If they are here they are not breaking and entering or selling.

"If we can get them for five hours that's five hours they are not engaged in negative activity. That's 33 hours a week they don't use.

"If we can increase that we can move them towards treatment. This is the hardest piece."

Government MP Ottiwell Simmons is the new board chairman replacing Dr. Leonard Astwood who becomes deputy.