A NEW scheme to help crack addicts and other hard-core drug users kick the habit is being piloted in Southamp-ton.

The six-month project is aimed at groups that can be hard to reach, such as ethnic minorities, prostitutes, parents, homeless people and those with mental health problems.

Drug users can pop into a weekly session where they can do anything from play cards to have acupuncture or an Indian head massage.

Experts from local drugs advisory groups will be on hand but there will be no pressure for anyone to access any services.

Drug users will also be able to exchange needles or obtain free condoms.

Alternatively, they can just have a coffee and some food - they do not even have to give their real name.

Project manager Pete Keeley said the scheme aimed to provide an informal club-type atmosphere, with background music, comfy seats, hot and cold drinks and snacks.

"We decided to offer a low-key type of service where no one would be asked reams of questions or have forms to fill in," said Pete.

"It is all very much geared to encourage them to come forward to a friendly and non-threatening, supportive environment, so they can get information if they need it.

"We aim to provide a free and confidential service in an atmosphere which is not seeking to put them in a box or label them in any way."

The idea followed a conference last year to discuss the increasing use of crack cocaine and the best treatment programmes to deal with it.

Drug experts from across the south decided to provide something for users who wanted help getting off crack but found established services - with traditional appointments systems - unsuitable.

Southampton was chosen to pilot the scheme as it has a recognised crack problem, with dealers targeting the city because of its easy road and rail links.

Successful bids for funding were made to the Government Office for the South East and Southampton Drug Action Team.

Weekly sessions are already running in the St Mary's and Shirley areas of the city.

Five local agencies - Options, Cranston Drugs Services,

St James, Southampton's Needle Exchange Team and the Working Women's Project - are taking part.

Although currently funded for six months, organisers hope the scheme, which launched in May, can be extended for a longer period.

Sessions take place at Options, 147 Shirley Road, Shirley, between 6.30pm and 8.30pm on Tuesdays (contact 07837 542636) and at Cranston Drugs Services, 118 St Mary's Road, St Mary's, between 6.30pm and 8.30pm on Thursdays (contact 07837 542698).