UK government minister for Scotland Kirsty McNeill has praised a partnership between a North Lanarkshire church and Christian charity, Street Connect, for his or her “good work” helping people scuffling with the scourge of addiction in the local people,
Based in converted rooms of the South Wishaw Parish Church’s constructing, the New Life Recovery Hub offers vulnerable members from the town and surrounding area who’re “scuffling with life-controlling issues” resources and support—and fresh hope.
The programme is the brainchild of Rev Terry Moran and is led by his brother, Danny Moran, who has many many years of experience within the social work field.
As well as offering addiction recovery support, volunteers help participants on a spread of issues, including housing, advantages, and fuel poverty.
“Our members have been a terrific support and encouragement in the event of those ministries and provides of their time and resources to make all of it occur,” Rev Moran said.
“God is being glorified day and each day in very practical ways with people whose hearts have opened to the plain need of others of their community and I’m happy with every one in all them.”
Launched in 2021, the programme has assisted 1000’s of individuals. The importance of its work was thrown into sharp relief by this month’s release of official figures showing that 1,172 people died as a consequence of drug misuse in 2023—a 12 per cent increase from 2022.
McNeil recently visited the programme to see the difference it’s making.
“I very much enjoyed seeing first-hand the good work of everyone involved on the New Life Recovery Hub,” she said.
“Community facilities like this are vital as we tackle issues with addiction. Giving assist in a non-judgmental environment is so necessary and it was really heartening to listen to from a few of the individuals who have benefitted from this initiative.”
Rev Moran said the minister had been very interested to listen to in regards to the programme.
He said that lots of the people in need of help are sometimes in tough circumstances which can be no fault of their very own. He stays steadfast in his belief that the sunshine of Christ can turn people’s lives around and said that the programme is making an actual difference in the neighborhood because of the support of the congregation and their partners.
“In the years that the project has been running, the work has developed greatly, where it seems like we’re providing a pre-rehab service to many, in addition to with the ability to help people back into work without the necessity for rehab,” he said.
There continues to be a number of work to be done, though.
“The challenge continues to be great and I’m honoured to be leading the church here at South Wishaw,” he said.
