Actor Paul Brannigan helps to launch rehab clinic for addicts

By MARK MCLAUGHLIN
Published on 12/11/2012 02:56

A REHAB centre for pregnant addicts has been launched with the support of an ex-convict who beat his own addictions to become an acclaimed actor.

Paul Brannigan, star of Ken Loach’s prize-winning film The Angels’ Share, has opened the The Aberlour Family Support Service.

The centre offers addict mothers and expectant mothers from across Scotland purpose-built rehabilitation accommodation, complete with communal facilities and a gym, in the East End of Glasgow.

The service is designed to help addicts beat their problems, provide parenting advice and keep their children out of care.

The Angels’ Share tells the story of a jobless young jailbird who resolves to change his life after becoming a father. It won the Jury Prize at the 2012 Cannes Film Festival and was in the running for the prestigious Palme d’Or.

Mr Brannigan, who was imprisoned in his teens for a firearm offence and has battled addiction, described the film as “like a mirror image to my life”. He helped dedicate a “recovery tree” in the grounds of the new Aberlour facility to commemorate its launch.

Aberlour chief executive Ken Dunbar said: “This really is a proud moment for Aberlour, as it stretches the boundaries of our work once again.

“Aberlour has a history of working in some of the most challenging areas because deep down in our hearts we know that everyone has the potential for growth and change.”

One former resident said: “I came straight from a hostel and I had a lot of problems and 
addictions.

“I was also pregnant and in an abusive relationship so this was my chance to get in here without him knowing. Aberlour is the only place that has worked for me.”