I have mentioned this on another thread but I thought I ought to formally announce this.

I am leaving SMMGP. It has been by far the most interesting, rewarding and enjoyable job I have ever done, however after 8 years it was time for a new challenge. I am taking up a position with Inclusion Drug and Alcohol Services implementing an IAPT programme in Liverpool (increased access to psychological therapies). My last day is tommorrow friday the 5th, so after that date my e-mail address (smmgp@freeuk.com) and phone numbers may not work (although I am doing a few extra days for SMMGP under a reciprocal arrangement, including our conference).

Thanks to all of you for making this such a succesful and valuable forum, I hope to keep on dropping in on it after I leave so hopefully it is not goodbye for ever.

Adieu

Jim,
Sad news but I wish you the very best for the future. I have enjoyed our online discussions over the years and your invaluable help and support.
I am pretty sure we will have a get together at some stage.
You have my e mail address and phone number so please keep in touch.
very best wishes

Simon

Hi Jim,
Sad to hear too, but good luck in the new challenge and thank you for your input/advice on the forum... best wishes.

Joe

Jim,
Very best of luck, you will be missed (But there will now be less confusion in my mind about which Jim people are talkig about on here)

This forum has been crucial to my personal professional development in my practice and teaching in the drug treatment field, your contributions have been a very important component in this place, thank you and good luck

Jim Jones

I totally second Jim J's comments, not only this forum but the whole drugs world will lose one of its best advocates, and its most knowledgeable resources. For me the forum is where it all started, and Jim is the forum. Where do i start? who knows more about all the different models of shared care in the UK, the weird and wonderful world of GPwSIs and primary care politics, drug treatment itself, and the evidence base, and what a network of contacts. Kindly download the entire contents of your head and your address book before you leave!
I know I sound flippant, actually I'm just putting off the grief. We're going to miss you Jim, but if you're half as good where your going as you have been here, they'll be the lucky ones! I do wish you well, but it would be so good to see you back someday!

Hi Jim, I have'nt been on this forum for ages, it seems however; I just wanted to wish you the best of endeavours in your new role. As other posters have said, your a mine field of accurate information and have an acute ability at verbalising and communicating your experience and knowledge with sensitivity and total professionalism.

All the very best of luck in your new job Jim. It has been great working with you over the years. Your enthusiasm and committment will be missed

Jim

Reckon you've really pushed treatment forward & I would Just like to say a huge thank you.

Health, happiness & prosperity for your future.

Jimi

chair of NUN (national user network)

I hope you manage to get this as I've not recently logged on, but I will be very sad to see you go Jim , you have played such an important role, not just this forum but also the substance misuse educational scene. Wishing you all the best in your new role - are you being replaced??