AN undercover detective who spent years infiltrating the drug-dealing underworld is using his experience to help professionals kick the habit.

Tim Murphy has launched Freedom Now, a training company designed to reduce sick days by helping employees confront their addictions.

Mr Murphy joined Cleveland Police in 1991. He left in 2006.

Before recently setting up his own business he worked for the drug and alcohol treatment charity, Addaction, and was eventually appointed manager of the Chester-le-Street Drug and Alcohol Service.

As an expert witness who can be called upon in court to give impartial evidence in drugs cases, Mr Murphy has designed training programmes using his knowledge.

“I know that there are police officers, firemen and other professionals who take cocaine, but they feel there is nowhere for them to go for help,” he said.

Clients suffering from anxiety and stress, as the result of, or as a trigger for their substance misuse, have been the most common cases. Using acupuncture, neuro-linguistic programming and conversational therapy, Mr Murphy and his wife, Debbie, are tackling taboos in the workplace.

“Whether we are working with an organisation or an individual we are trying to cut absenteeism,” he said.

“Most people keep problems to themselves, but after only one session with us they can be thinking much more clearly and feeling positive about the future.”

For more information, visit freedomnow.co.uk or call 01642-271492.