Actor backs women's rehab centre

Nov 12 2012

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."