Inverclyde's MP is lobbying for financial support for a Greenock drug rehab unit

Ronnie Cowan, who is the vice-chair of the all-party parliamentary group at Westminster on drug policy reform, says he has spoken to Scottish Government minister Angela Constance MSP regarding drugs policy and highlighted the work of Jericho House.

Michael Trail of Jericho spoke to the Telegraph recently saying that the service, which puts the focus on abstinence in its recovery work, was struggling to survive.

He has expressed doubt that the organisation will receive a slice of a new £250m Scottish Government investment to tackle the country's growing drugs deaths crisis and says his scepticism comes from a series of snubs over the years, despite his team's successful track record.

But Mr Cowan has told the Tele that both Jericho House and The Haven in Kilmacolm were part of the discussions he held with the minister.

He says Ms Constance is 'fully aware of the excellent work they do' and is hopeful that both services could receive investment under the new national programme.

He said: "I have met with both organisations to gain a better understanding of the service they provide and the difficulties they face raising funds.

"This will be an ongoing discussion as the structure of any organisation and their financial reporting process has to meet defined requirements before they are deemed suitable.

"I would hope that Jericho and The Haven will fall within those boundaries and will benefit from this latest funding announcement.

"Abstinence is a tried and tested method and is highly valued."

Jericho House has two rehab units in Greenock, a men's centre in Bank Street and a centre for women in Shankland Road.

It has helped 300 people turn their lives around.

Mr Cowan says he will also highlight the Tele's coverage of its work, and the concerns that have been raised by its management team, with the minister.

He added: "It is important that any and all avenues that can help those experiencing harm are pursued and supported.”