Tranx champ Barry’s new battle

Barry Haslam:: his group in danger

A SUPPORT group for people trying to withdraw from prescribed drugs is appealing for new members.

Oldham Tranx, now 26 years old, had been in danger of closing until One Recovery Oldham agreed to provide assistance. Tranx is the longest-running peer support group for prescribed drug addiction in the country.

Former chair and founder Barry Haslam said: “Membership numbers are very low at the moment. But One Recovery Oldham has agreed to provide assistance to keep Tranx running.”

New members can attend fortnightly meetings, the next at the Link Centre in Union Street on October 26 (11am-1pm).

Mr Haslam, who is one the country’s most vocal campaigners on the prescription of benzodiazepines has long fought for those affected by addiction to the drug.

He added: “There are practically no available support groups in the country, so groups like Tranx are a vital link between the local community and public services.”