MP Martin Docherty-Hughes has praised a Dumbarton-based charity for its work over the past 40 years to people support affected by alcohol across West Dunbartonshire.
Mr Docherty-Hughes, SNP MP for West Dunbartonshire, said he was inspired by the dedication of staff and volunteers at Dumbarton Area Council on Alcohol (DACA) following a visit to the charity's support centre at West Bridgend in Dumbarton.
DACA, which last year celebrated its 40th anniversary, is a community-based alcohol service providing advice, information and counselling for anyone in West Dunbartonshire who is affected by their own or someone else's alcohol-related problems.
Mr Docherty-Hughes said: "I'd like to thank the team at Dumbarton Area Council on Alcohol (DACA) for giving me the opportunity to discuss the impact of alcohol addiction on our communities.
"For over 40 years staff and volunteers at DACA have provided vital counselling and support services to people with alcohol-related problems and their families.
"It's truly inspiring to see first-hand how the dedicated support offered by DACA has helped to transform the lives of people affected by alcohol.
"Despite the progress made in tackling alcohol misuse, it's clear that Scotland continues to have a difficult relationship with alcohol. This isn't a problem unique to Scotland but it is needlessly costing lives and blighting our communities.
"The Scottish Government is committed to reducing alcohol-related harm and is taking a range of actions to tackle alcohol abuse, including an additional £20 million investment in alcohol and drug services.
"For anyone in West Dunbartonshire struggling with alcohol problems it's important to know that support is available.
"I'd like to thank the team at Dumbarton Area Council on Alcohol (DACA) for giving me the opportunity to discuss the impact of alcohol addiction on our communities.
"Anyone needing advice or support can contact DACA in Clydebank on 0141 952 0881 or in Dumbarton call 01389 731456."
Further information about DACA is available at http://daca.org.uk/
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