A FORMER addict who returned from the brink has told of her turn-around - thanks to the help of a York service.

As part of York Drug and Alcohol Awareness Week a patron of Compass, in York's Bridge Street, has come forward to show that addicts can pick up the pieces of their lives.

Jessica, who is using a false name, told the Evening Press how she descended into the dark world of drugs, alcohol and solvent abuse after she lost her job and her relationship.

She had been in and out of care during her childhood and turned to Compass at 23, when she was homeless and without any money.

Jessica said: "I'm educated to degree level, but there have been periods of unemployment and drug, solvent and alcohol use - leading to a number of accidents and a volatile social life.

"I was using solvents and alcohol in dangerous amounts, I was homeless and without benefits or any other financial means.

"Compass immediately found me emergency accommodation and contacted the benefits office for a crisis payment."

Jessica revealed she used the group's drop-in centre almost every day, while receiving support and help to break her addictions - despite the occasional relapse.

"Things were OK until a crisis at the place I was staying led to a massive binge - I was told later I'd had a seizure in the drop-in, but the next thing I knew I was waking up in hospital," Jessica added.

"When I got out of hospital, Compass helped me get a flat, and I knew this was my chance to make some changes.

"I started a new relationship and found a new job with a charity. I'm now drug-free and working full time, and planning to get married in the near future, but I still like to drop in from time to time and see the old faces."

Meanwhile, Compass outreach workers were at Ikon/Diva at Clifton on Tuesday night, during an under-18 alcohol-free night. They were talking to young people about the risks of drug and alcohol misuse and were stressing that they can have a good time in a club without either.

Compass provides a range of services to help drug users move away from their problems and into healthier, safer lifestyles.

For information on any of the Compass services, please phone the Compass Drug Resource Scheme helpline on 01904 647474.

Updated: 09:22 Thursday, May 15, 2003