The “ongoing journey” out of addiction was marked by Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, with a tour of Focus Counselling Services, marking September as Recovery Month.

Mr Weeks and visitors were shown through the facility in St George’s and introduced to residents by Leslie Grant, the executive director of Focus.

They were joined by Joanne Dean, the director of the Department for National Drug Control, and treatment officer Laura Walker.

Six clients are in treatment at Focus, while four others recently completed their recovery to reintegrate into the community.

Mr Weeks, who served as a substance abuse counsellor at the facility, called it “a reminder of the resilience and progress made by those facing addiction challenges”.

“This issue goes beyond substance abuse and includes mental health, dignity and hope for people battling substance abuse at helping centres and facilities across the island, at places like the Nelson Bascome Substance Abuse Treatment Facility at Dockyard, where men and women are helped.

“These men and women are our responsibility, not just during Recovery Month, but every single day.”

Ms Dean highlighted the DNDC’s commitment to supporting organisations such as Focus.

She added: “Our mission is to provide effective prevention, treatment and rehabilitation services across the island, and partnerships with community-based facilities are essential to that work.”

Mr Grant said: “Focus is about second chances, and providing structured, compassionate support for those ready to rebuild their lives.

"Recovery is transformative, and every day we see individuals reconnect with their communities and rediscover their purpose.”

Recovery Month is observed internationally each September to celebrate the gains made by those in recovery, raise awareness of treatment options and highlight the importance of support services for those affected by substance use.

Information on getting help is online via the government portal.