16.10.12 Addaction chosen as lead partner to help people in Blackpool with complex problems

Addaction has been chosen by the Big Lottery Fund to help people with deeply entrenched problems in Blackpool.

The town has has been identified as one of 15 locations in the UK that has a high number of people with complex needs. Addaction will work as a lead partner in this new 'Fulfilling Lives' programme, which will receive £100 million of funding over an eight year period.

The aim of the programme is to help those affected by homelessness, reoffending, substance misuse and mental ill health. The work will also be used to influence government policy and practice. Addaction's role will be helps to improve the support available locally by bringing together a partnership of organisations in Blackpool - who will then apply for part of the dedicated £100 million.

Addaction is particularly keen to include those affected by the issues in the design and implementation of this new initiative, and has already begun consulting with local agencies to ensure that their skills and expertise play a key role in the programme's success.

Any agencies who would like to be involved with the 'Fulfilling Lives' programme can contact Alan Hopley on a.hopley@addaction.org.uk

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For more information contact the Addaction Press Office on 020 7017 2747