Drugs charity in administration

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A major drugs charity which helps thousands of addicts across Merseyside, has gone into administration.

The Lighthouse Project was set up 40 years ago and has more than 100 staff.

Liverpool City Council confirmed its financial difficulties but said it was trying to ensure all patients continued to receive treatment.

The charity provides clean needles for heroin users, prescribes drugs such as methadone, helps vulnerable women and supports people back into work.

I have talked with many heroin addicts and for the majority, the project workers are the only people they trust. Joe Mallone, medical student

The Lighthouse Project has offices in Bootle, Liverpool city centre, St Helens, Southport, Knowsley and Croxteth, which provide support to hundreds of people in each area.

Joe Mallone, a third year medical student, has been on a placement at the Lighthouse Project for the past month.

He said: "I couldn't believe it when I was told that the charity might have to fold.

"It is really worrying, especially for all the patients. I have talked with many heroin addicts and for the majority, the project workers are the only people they trust.

"They receive support, counselling and time. I just don't know what will happen to them if this organisation goes under."

Mr Mallone, who was based at the Bootle centre, said more than 700 users were registered there.

"Prescriptions for methadone have been drawn up for the next six weeks to ensure patients are receiving the necessary treatment.

"How could this happen to such an important charity?"

The chief executive of the charity, Eileen Westwood, has so far been unavailable for comment.