Anne Milton pays the hospital a visit

Minister for Public Health Anne Milton visited the Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust’s drug treatment centre on Thursday 10 March to take a tour of the facility and meet with patients.

The centre, based at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, provides specialist treatment for people with drug and alcohol problems and helps patients to stabilise their lives and reduce and stop harmful substance use. Recovery from addiction is achieved by focusing on a range of areas including physical and psychological health, family relationships, social networks and employment.

Lead Clinician Dr Owen Bowden-Jones (Consultant Psychiatrist) said: “People suffering with harmful substance use are often some of the most disadvantaged in society.

“Despite drug use contributing to many complex problems, people can and do recovery from the illness. Our clinic is one of many across the country working to help people on this journey back to health.

“We are delighted that the Minister spent time visiting the unit and listening to patients and staff. I hope the visit has underlined the need for specialist services to help people suffering with harmful drug use recover and achieve their full potential.”

Photo (l to r): Annette Dale Perera (Strategic Director, Addictions Directorate, CNWL), Anne Milton, Darren Kingaby (Team Co-ordinator, Drug Treatment Centre, CNWL) and Owen Bowden-Jones (Consultant Psychiatrist, Drug Treatment Centre, CNWL)