Motvi8 addiction services will be adapting how it operates during the circuit-breaker lockdown.

The charity, however, says it is aiming to ensure ’the minimum of disruption’ to counselling services and groups.

For people that already have appointments booked, these can be done either via telephone or online.

The charity stated: ’If you are struggling and need face-to-face support, please call us and we will do our best to accommodate you.

’Face-to-face appointments will go ahead for emergencies only.

’If you are shielding, it’s strongly advised that you receive remote support and if you need help with essentials let us know.

’If you are a new or returning client, you can still receive support - call us on 627656.

’The Smart Recovery and the 5 Point group work recovery programme, Cocaine Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous are going online - call or message us for joining information.

’If you do attend our premises for any reason, please use the hand sanitiser and observe social distancing rules - we can provide you with a mask if you require one.’

The charity also directed people to its Facebook page for information and as a point of contact.

Chief executive officer Thea Ozenturk provided some advice.

’If you’re struggling with any type of addictive behaviour, it’s really important to try and look after yourself,’ she said. ’Try to reduce and stabilise or stop your use (only stop using alcohol if it’s safe to do so, as stopping suddenly can be risky).

’Stay connected to people who are supportive of you.

’And care for them too as helping others makes you feel you’re doing your bit.

’Look after your mental health and take exercise. Routine is good and helps the days go by.

’Limit negative social media and be careful what you watch on TV or read.

’Stay positive - we are navigating our way out of this and this is one of the final steps to kicking Covid-19 into touch.

’We have been fortunate here on our lovely island and this is just another milestone to get through.’

Motiv8 also highlighted how its services for young people and families have been under financial threat due to ’a huge rise in demand in recent years, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic’ - a funding appeal has been launched at: https://gofund.me/185768af