The charity provides community-based counselling, assistance and signposting to help individuals who are affected by alcohol, and their families.

"We are very pleased David has joined us as he brings vast experience in healthcare, together with prison and children services," said GAAS Director, David Newman. "He will help us develop the residential unit in line with the Bailiwick’s Drug and Alcohol Strategy.

"Each year we see over 100 local people who need our help and we have housed 500 residents since we opened our doors over 30 years ago."

Mr Prevel will provide short and long term residential support for recovering alcoholics and help raise awareness of the service in the community.

He bring 17 years’ experience in the Guernsey Prison Service and six in children’s services. He is also qualified as an Offending Behaviour Tutor and has worked in healthcare and rehabilitation.

"I genuinely get a buzz out of helping people and offering a non-judgemental ear and see myself as a good listener and empathetic, which will be important in this role," Mr Prevel added. "My aim is to help islanders who are experiencing alcohol and mental health issues and are homeless return successfully from the unit to the community and rebuild their lives, health and relationships, alcohol free."

In his spare time, Mr Prevel is a keen motorcyclist and founder of the Guernsey Bikers’ Group. He is Co-Owner of the ex-forces PTSD Racing Team, which helps former military personnel living with post traumatic stress disorder.

Pictured top: David Prevel.