SAD helped drug addicts to get back into work

Deputy Justice Minister Hugh Henry said SAD's main functions would be moved to the new Scottish Centre for Healthy Working Lives from next April.

He said the switch would place more focus on tackling wider problems faced by serious misusers, such as making the transition from addiction into work.

SAD director Alistair Ramsay did not comment on the move.

The seven staff currently working for SAD who wish to transfer to the centre will be offered posts under the governance of NHS Health Scotland, according to the executive.

We have long argued for greater emphasis on early access to education and training for people with drug problems David Liddell, Scottish Drugs Forum director

The centre, launched in April 2005, aims to help vulnerable people, including those with serious drug addictions.

Mr Henry said: "All the evidence shows that drug treatment must be combined with wider support if we are to get people permanently off drugs, including methadone, and into healthy and productive lives.

"We have now reached a point where this work can be better developed in the new Scottish Centre for Healthy Working Lives."

David Liddell, director of the Scottish Drugs Forum said: "We have long argued for greater emphasis on early access to education and training for people with drug problems."

SAD's achievements included providing work to more than 50 recovered addicts across Scotland.