Computer misery hits drug charity (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Computer misery hits drug charity

Picture Ref: 78880-8A CHARITY that avoided being made homeless has been hit by another crisis.

Druglink, in Victoria Road, has just bought the premises to ensure its future.

But it is facing a bill of up to £7,000 to replace its computer system after the existing network crashed.

David Cork, manager of the centre, said: "We have two options, get the old one fixed but there is no guarantee how long it will last or buy a new system.

"As a charity, £7,000 is a huge amount.

"If any businesses can support us in any way it will be greatly appreciated."

Druglink uses the system to store all its data including all the information it holds on the people who use its services.

"All the statistics we produce are done on the computers," said Mr Cork.

"It is all connected with that vital system and we need it to provide the services we offer."

The charity's research has shown that around £180,000 is being stolen from shops in Swindon every day to fund the town's increasing drug problem.

The centre offers advice, support, counselling and treatment to drug users and the people around them.

The charity helps more than 5,000 people a year and sees about 40 people daily.

It was set up 13 years ago as a response to the rising drug problems in Swindon.

Police estimate there are 3,000 heroin and crack addicts in the town.

The charity has applied to Swindon Council for planning permission to extend the premises so they can offer a wider range of services.

In the short term it hopes to refurbish the premises and hopes the plans will be accepted by the council.

Druglink is open 9.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday. For more information call Druglink on 01793 601133.

Stephanie Tye