Support for addicts after drug raids

HEALTH chief have pledged to be "on hand" to provide support services for drug addicts following a wave of police raids against suspected dealers in the Lothians.

A total of 32 people were charged with drug offences after a police operation on Wednesday and Thursday targeted addresses across East Lothian.

Drugs including heroin, cocaine, cannabis and Valium were seized as part of Operation Erase.

Police chiefs worked with NHS staff amid concerns that the arrests could leave addicts unable to source drugs in their local area. NHS bosses prepared for a possible surge in users seeking methadone prescriptions or rehabilitation services as a result.

Gerry Power, general manage with East Lothian Community Health Partnership, NHS Lothian, said: "We are working with the police and our colleagues in East Lothian Council to support this important work.

"Our staff in all appropriate services, including GPs and drug related services, are fully prepared and on hand to support people who may be affected by this operation."