A SERVICE to help under 18s deal with drug and alcohol issues has been so successful in Wimborne, Ferndown and Christchurch that it has expanded its service acro-ss the whole of Dorset.

The Shire Alcohol and Drugs Outreach Workers Service (Shadows) has a team of seven outreach workers who offer regular drop-in facilities at schools, learning centres and youth services, and anywhere young people meet.

They provide one to one and group work to young people who need help, and support for young people where there are family members or friends with problems.

Workers also go out at weekends and during events such as firework nights and carnival events in parts of the county, to speak to and support youngsters, and are hoping in the longer term to expand this service.

Anne Wood, a Shadows administrator based at their Blandford headquarters, said she didn't believe Dorset had a higher problem than anywhere else, but there were young people who needed support.

"People can get in touch with the service themselves, anyone can refer a young person so long as they have the consent of that young person.

"I will take referers here and pass them to the relevant workers. Because we cover the whole of Dorset they go into schools and youth services and wherever people want them to be."

Project manager Gina Forbes added: "Unfortunately we know only too well how damaging substance use can be and how it can impact young people socially, physically, mentally and not least of all educationally. "Shadows is committed in its endeavour to equip young people in making informed decisions around substance use and to work with those whose own, or someone else's use, is causing an adverse effect on their lives."

Funded by the Dorset Drug Action Team, Shadows' services are free and young people can talk confidentially about their problem.

To get in touch with the service contact 01258 488486. A website is currently being created at therealdeal.org.uk