North Devon drug service appoints volunteer co-ordinator

Y-SMART, the drug and alcohol service for youngsters in northern Devon, has appointed 19-year-old Phoebe Thompson to co-ordinate its young volunteers. Service manager Sarah Simpson said: Our service delivery really benefits from the input of our young p

Y-SMART, the drug and alcohol service for youngsters in northern Devon, has appointed 19-year-old Phoebe Thompson to co-ordinate its young volunteers.Service manager Sarah Simpson said: "Our service delivery really benefits from the input of our young people. Our volunteers help keep the service relevant and improve outcomes for our young clients."The appointment of Phoebe Thompson to support the volunteer programme will boost our capacity to cxco-ordinate this scheme and to think of new and creative ways of getting our messages out."Young people with drug, alcohol or solvent problems can refer themselves to Y-Smart, which can arrange treatment programmes and provide confidential support.Volunteers work alongside specialist workers to raise the profile of the service and make services more accessible to their peers. They also help to promote positive health messages.The volunteers cane be aged between 12 and 18 and training is provided.Phoebe has had experience working as a volunteer with Y-Smart herself, having taken part in the scheme for three years.She said: "I am really pleased to be starting this new job. It means I can carry on being involved in helping other volunteers. I think I can offer a lot to other young people locally."Any young people who would like to volunteer can call Phoebe on (01271) 388162 or email info@y-smart.org.uk