IF AN Oxford drugs charity closes because of a lack of funding it would be a disaster, a police officer has warned.

The Oxfordshire User Team - staffed by former addicts - helps recovering drug users back into work and helps them find treatment.

But the charity, which helps almost 300 Oxfordshire users a year and is based in James Street, East Oxford, has barely enough cash left in the bank to last a year.

It is now appealing for people with fundraising experience. The charity works with the police as members of a harm reduction strategy group.

Dc Leigh Thompson, drugs co-ordinator for Oxfordshire, said: "It would be an absolute disaster if the User Team does not continue.

"They're renowned country- wide for what they have achieved.

"With the User Team's assistance, we have more than halved the number of drug-related deaths from 21 deaths three years ago, to eight last year."

The founder of the group, Glenda Daniels, who used heroin and crack for eight years, said: "It seems we aren't flavour of the month any more.

"The Government held us up as a model of good practice and we used to get a fair bit of funding from them through the Oxfordshire Drug and Alcohol Action Team. Now it's gone right down.

"Most other groups aren't facing funding difficulties. Some are getting £130,000 a year."

After Ms Daniels set up the group four years ago, she helped to found 18 similar groups across the country. She added: "I think Oxfordshire does less well on funding than other counties, because of how it's worked out according to a formula."

The User Team runs workshops to help addicts understand the dangers of hepatitis C and overdoses.

Volunteer David Brough, 35, who used crack and cocaine, said: "When I was having treatment, I didn't feel anyone understood what I was going through.

"That's how ex-user involvement can help. Working here has done so much for my self-esteem. This has been a big factor in keeping me stable for 15 months."

Ms Daniels said Oxfordshire Drug and Alcohol Action Team had been extremely supportive.

To offer help or find out more, email glenda.daniels@oxford shireuserteam.org.uk or call 01865 209111.