NHS Grampian has become the first health board in Scotland to host Narcotics Anonymous (NA) drop-in sessions for pregnant women at weekly antenatal appointments.

Those attending the specialist sub-clinic at Aberdeen Maternity Hospital will have already received obstetric care throughout their pregnancy, as well as support from a Community Psychiatric Nurse.

In a move to improve access to support for patients in the region, the clinic now also facilitates drop-in sessions with NA volunteers.

NHS Grampian midwifery manager Lynn Cameron said the clinics present a valuable opportunity to provide more support for vulnerable women.

She said: "We discovered many women who come to this antenatal clinic have no examples of successful recovery in their lives - that's where NA comes in.

"The volunteers who run the child-friendly sessions share their personal experience and stories of strength and hope."

NHS Grampian midwife Jenni Smith said: "There is no obligation for the women to attend the drop-in when they come for their clinic appointment, it's just important we let them know it's here if they would like to use it."

The sessions, which can be one-to-one or in groups, have been running since the summer and the health board is looking to recruit more NA volunteers to boost the service further.