A SUCCESSFUL drugs taskforce which helps former addicts get back on their feet is coming to Havering.

Troubleshooters from The Small Business Consultancy (TSBC) will work with Havering Council’s drug and alcohol team to launch the project, known as E=MC2.

The ten-session programme, run from February over two-and-a-half months, teaches recovering drug users to set up and start a company.

TSBC founder Amar Lodhia, 26, said: “Our vision from the outset has been and is to create a society where nothing holds people back from becoming �successful and achieving something out of life.”

Amar founded the TSBC in September 2009 with the �support of entrepreneurs and business and community leaders.

It has worked with a number of boroughs across London, helping people from marginalised backgrounds.

Over the last year, the E=MC2 programme reduced reoffending rates by 96 per-cent and helped 54 per-cent of participants into employment, education and training.

Cllr Steven Kelly, cabinet member for adult social care, said: “We want to fully support people in recovery from addiction to help them make a positive contribution when returning to the community. That’s why we are working with E=MC2 on this scheme.”

Ex-user Sajjad Hussain set up catering company Wrap and Roll after attending a programme funded by Barking and Dagenham Council.

He said: “TSBC has helped to make my dream a reality, of running my own business. The E=MC2 programme has helped me to stay away from drugs and made me use my time productively. I cannot believe how fast the company has grown.”