Lynsey, 22
I was still at school when I was introduced to heroin, but at first, it was a weekend thing, then it
escalated to almost every day.
I stooped as low as a rat, stealing, selling my belongings, borrowing money off friends and family
with no intention of paying it back – my life was one big lie. I couldn´t hold a job down and I was
on the dole. I slipped further and further. I had to change, I needed to change, I could not go on
the way I was, I needed help.
My GP suggested referring me to a drug addiction clinic called Compass – I met my keyworker who was
brilliant. We talked about anything and everything; it was good to talk to someone who wouldn´t judge
me for what I was – I trusted her.
I started on 40mls methadone, it took me a while to stabilise and I did have the occasional relapse.
I am now on 6mls of methadone and I´ve been clean since June 1999. I look to the future now. I have
had my present job for two years. I know I would not have got this far if it wasn't for the clinic
and my keyworker, who I owe a lot to for just being there for me the whole way through.