Alcohol & Drugs
Did you know that men and women are advised not to drink more than 14 units per week. By reducing your alcohol intake to less than 14 units a week, this is considered low-risk drinking. It's called "low risk" rather than "safe" because there is no safe drinking level.
Benefits of Cutting Down
There are so many benefits to reducing your alcohol consumption, some you may expect and others that may be a welcome surprise. Not only is it good for your general health, improving your appearance and how you feel, drinking less will have a positive impact on other aspects of your life including your relationships and work.
Very Brief Intervention
Ask
Do you mind if I ask you a question about alcohol?
- This question may be promoted from some verbal or visual prompts i.e. the person has stated that they have a hangover or there is evidence of drinking in the home etc
How often do you have a drink containing alcohol?
- If the answer given indicates around 4 or more times a week you may wish to consider asking how many drinks do they have on each of these occasions, explain that unit measures can be quite confusing and offer to explain a simple unit measurement guide.
- The principle behind understanding units and applying these to the guideline is important. Essentially, the greater the dose consumed, the greater the chance of unwanted effects.
This is one unit...
The Chief Medical Officers (CMO) guideline for both men and women states that:
- To keep health risks from alcohol to a low level it is safest not to drink more than 14 units a week on a regular basis
- If you regularly drink as much as 14 units per week, it's best to spread your drinking evenly over three or more days
- If you wish to cut down the amount you drink, a good way to help achieve this is to have several drink-free days a week.
Healthcare professionals are advised to use the questions within the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test Consumption (AUDIT C)
The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test Consumption (AUDIT C)
Assist
State some of many benefits to reducing alcohol intake
- Save Money
- Improved relationships
- Reduce calorie intake/lose weight
- Improved fertility if you are trying for a baby
- Improved sleep
- Reduced risk of injury
- Fewer hangovers
- More alert and higher performing at work
- Reduced risk of high blood presure
- Reduced risk of cancer
- Reduced risk of liver disease
Act
NATIONAL SUPPORT
Do you think you would benefit from some further support to reduce your drinking to 'lower risk' levels?
- Speak to your GP, a loved one or call Drinkline 0300 1231110 (Mon-Fri 9am - 8pm, weekends 11am - 4pm). The Drinkline service provides free, confidential, accurate and consistent information and advice to callers who are concerned about their own or someone else`s drinking regardless of the caller`s age, gender, sexuality, ethnicity or spirituality.
- Download the 'One You' drinks tracker makes it easy to keep an eye on the booze and take control with daily tips and feedback) available on itunes or google play
- Get further information from NHS Choices www.nhs.uk
- Mutual Aid services including twelve step programmes and Smart Recovery are available to anyone who wants support to address their drug or alcohol use. You can find a meeting here:
- Alcoholics Anonymous https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/
- Narcotics Anonymous https://online.ukna.org/
- Cocaine Anonymous https://www.ca-online.org/
- SMART Recovery https://smartrecovery.org.uk/online-meetings/
SELF CARE
Further tips on cutting down
Make a plan
Before you start drinking, set a limit on how much you're going to drink.
Set a budget
Only take a fixed amount of money to spend on alcohol.
Let them know
If you let your friends and family know you're cutting down and it's important to you, you could get support from them.
Take it a day at a time
Cut back a little each day. That way, every day you do is a success.
Make it a smaller one
You can still enjoy a drink, but go for smaller sizes. Try bottled beer instead of pints, or a small glass of wine instead of a large one.
Have a lower-strength drink
Cut down the alcohol by swapping strong beers or wines for ones with a lower strength (ABV in %). You'll find this information on the bottle.
Stay hydrated
Have a glass of water before you have alcohol and alternate alcoholic drinks with water or a soft drink.
Take a break
Have several drink-free days each week.
Local Support and Contact Details
CGL - St Luke's Service
St Luke's Service is a free and confidential drug and alcohol service for adults in Barking and Dagenham. They make support accessible and remove the stigma of substance misuse issues, using a trauma informed approach. They have several satellites across the borough.
Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/content/dagenham-drug-alcohol-service
Telephone: 020 8595 1375
Email: stlukes@cgl.org.uk
Address: St Lukes, Dagenham Road, RM10 7UP.
WDP - Subwize (Young People)
Subwize is a vibrant community facing young people's drug and alcohol service. They provide a range of prevention and treatment services aimed at preventing young people from engaging in substance misusing and risk-taking behaviours. They enable young people to develop boundaries, emotional resilience and self-esteem, actively support young people to reduce and/or stop harmful behaviours such as drug and alcohol use, encouraging prosocial and healthy alternatives. It is open for young people under the age of 21 with a transition group for those between 21 and 24.
Website: https://www.wdp.org.uk/find-us/london/subwize
Telephone: 0300 303 4613
Email: info.subwize@wdp.org.uk
Secure email: info.subwize@wdp.cjsm.net
Address: Subwize, The Vibe, 195-211 Becontree Avenue, Dagenham, RM8 2UT.
Change Grow Live Barnet
Change Grow Live Barnet is the local service for adults and young people who are experiencing issues with drugs or alcohol.
The service is free and open to all Barnet residents, as well as their families and carers. Any professional, such as a housing support worker, social worker or a nurse, can make a referral on your behalf or you can get in touch yourself. You will be able to talk to one of the duty team practitioners who will help you decide which service best meets your needs. The team will then work with you to create a care plan, which will be reviewed regularly.
Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/barnet
Telephone: 0300 303 2866 24 hours a day
General Email: Barnet.Info@cgl.org.uk (Please be advised that this email address should not be used to send confidential information). Should any confidential information need to be sent, please use the secure email: barnet.info@cgl.cjsm.net
Address: Change Grow Live Barnet, Ground Floor, Dennis Scott Unit, Edgware Community Hospital, Burnt Oak Broadway, Edgware, HA8 0AD.
Our dedicated pages on the council website also has other information and support:
Barnet adult drug and alcohol misuse services
Barnet young people drug and alcohol misuse services
South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust - Adults
This service provides support to those aged 18 and over who are experiencing difficulties with drug and/or alcohol use. The service will work with you to achieve your goals and improve your quality of life. Support is also available for carers and family members who are affected by other's substance misuse. A number of drop-in sessions are available or please phone for more information.
Website: https://prpbexley.org.uk/
Telephone: 01322 357940
Email: slm-tr.PierRoadProject@nhs.net
Address: Erith Health Centre, 50 Pier Road, Erith, DA8 1RQ.
Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust - Young People
This service provides an assessment and treatment service for children and young people aged under 18 who are experiencing difficulties with drugs and/or alcohol. This is a specialist service and referrals should be made by other professionals working with the young person, such as social workers, teachers, school nurses, youth workers, GPs etc.
Website: http://oxleas.nhs.uk/
Telephone: 020 3260 5200
New Beginnings
New Beginnings is a fully integrated substance misuse service offering free and confidential support for individuals and their families affected by drug and alcohol problems. It is delivered by WDP in conjunction with Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust (CNWL) and the service user organisation - B3.
The specialist team includes substance misuse workers, doctors, nurses and psychologists, as well as volunteers and peer mentors. The service is free and open to all Brent residents aged 18 or over, as well as their families and carers. Self-referrals are welcome, as well as referrals from any professional, such as housing support worker, social worker or nurse.
Website: www.wdp.org.uk/brent
Telephone: 0300 303 4611
24/7 helpline: 0800 107 1754
Email: info.brent@wdp.org.uk
Secure email: info.brent@wdp.cjsm.net
Address: 97 Cobbold Road, London, NW10 9SU or Willesden Centre for Health, Harlesden Road, London NW10 3RY.
New Beginnings Young People’s Service
New Beginnings Young People’s Service offers support for young people who may be affected by drugs or alcohol. The service is available to young people under 21 (and transitional age group 21-24) who live in Brent or attend schools and colleges in the borough. The service is also able to work with the parents and carers of children in Brent.
New beginnings will support young people whether they use drugs or alcohol for fun, have a problem with them, or just want a bit more information. New Beginnings is based in Willesden but will work with young people in community settings, at a location most accessible to them, such as schools, youth clubs and other local venues.
Website: www.wdp.org.uk/brent-elev8
Telephone: 0300 303 4547
24/7 helpline: 0800 107 1754
Email: info.brent@wdp.org.uk
Secure email: info.brent@wdp.cjsm.net
Address: 97 Cobbold Road, London NW10 9SU.
B-3, The Brent Substance Misuse Service User Council
B-3 members have all made use of substance misuse services for support and are now commissioned by Public Health at Brent Council to run Brent's weekend substance misuse support service (BSAFE), a personal development programme (Recovery Champions) and take an active part in wider service and community development.
B-3 aims to:-
- Raise awareness of drug and alcohol issues through information and education.
- Provide a voice and support for service users.
- Improve services in Brent through community feedback, partnership work, training and service user involvement.
Website: www.b-3.org.uk
Telephone: 0300 303 4611 or 07958 086346
Email: info@b-3.org.uk
Address: 97 Cobbold Road, London NW10 9SU.
BSAFE - Weekend Drop-in Service
Co-ordinated and run by B-3 (Brent's Substance Misuse Service User Council)
BSAFE is a Weekend Drop-in Service for Brent residents with substance misuse issues and/or those in recovery from these problems.
BSAFE offers
- A friendly, safe and relaxing environment
- Refreshments
- Newspapers, TV and computer access
- Children are welcome if accompanied by a responsible adult
Saturdays - 12-5pm at 97 Cobbold Road, London NW10 9SU.
Sundays - 1-4pm at 97 Cobbold Road, London NW10 9SU.
Website: www.b-3.org.uk/bsafe
Telephone: 0300 303 4611 or 07958 086346
Email: info@b-3.org.uk
Address: 97 Cobbold Road, London NW10 9SU.
Change Grow Live (CGL) Bromley Drugs & Alcohol Service (BDAS)
Bromley Drug and Alcohol Service (BDAS) is a LBB Public Health commissioned service that offers a range of treatment and support for adults aged 18+ who have concerns about their drug or alcohol use and are residents in the borough of Bromley.
Access to the service can be made by self-referral or from partner agencies. From here users of the service can access the amalgamated drug and alcohol recovery programmes.
Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/content/bromley-drug-alcohol-service-bdas
Telephone: 020 8289 1999
Address: Our main service is located at 35 London Road, Bromley, BR1 1DG. Other locations can be found here.
Families & Carers
At Bromley Family and Carers’ Service, we know that substance misuse affects more than just the individual. It also takes its toll on family, friends, partners and children.
We provide a free and confidential support service working with the families and carers of anyone who has been affected by drugs or alcohol in the borough.
After an initial assessment, you can attend peer support groups and be referred for one-to-one counselling.
Telephone: 020 8313 9673
Integrated Camden Alcohol Service (iCAS)
The Integrated Camden Alcohol Service (ICAS) is a welcoming, open access service for people experiencing difficulty with alcohol use or who are affected by alcohol use issues. This includes provision of the Family alcohol Service (FAS) delivered in partnership with the NSPCC and the provision of the affected others service – Some Space (SS).
Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/drug-and-alcohol-camden/alcohol
Telephone: 0300 303 2420
Address: 7-8 Early Mews, Arlington Road, Camden Town, London, NW1 7HG.
iCAS can offer you help and support with your drinking from a variety of locations including medical centres, hostels, hospitals and meeting places in the community.
Integrated Camden Drug Service (iCADS)
At ICADS we recognise that recovery is specific to each individual. We deliver a range of tailored interventions and activities to support ongoing recovery from drug use, improve mental health and general wellbeing.
Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/drug-and-alcohol-camden/drugs
Telephone: 0207 485 2722
Address: You can view the iCADS locations here.
Camden young people’s drug and alcohol service (FWD)
Telephone: 020 7974 4701
E-mail: ypsmt@camden.gov.uk
City and Hackney Recovery Service
Delivered by Turning Point in partnership with Mind CHWF and Antidote, City and Hackney Recovery Service offers free, confidential and accessible substance misuse support and treatment to all Hackney residents.
Experienced staff within City and Hackney Recovery Service understand people have different support and treatment needs around the use of illicit drugs and alcohol and provide a full range of services from harm reduction interventions, to participating in more structured treatment, one-to-one support and clinical services.
Referrals into detox and rehabilitation services are always made as part of a care package to prepare individuals for inpatient treatment and to ensure there is aftercare for sustained recovery.
We will regularly review your care plan with you and adjust the plan to make sure you always receive the appropriate support at the appropriate time.
City and Hackney Recovery Service prioritises providing support for carers and families, benefits advice and re-integration activities delivering excellent women-only services, LGBTQA+ specific services, rough sleepers services, clear pathways from the criminal justice system into treatment, education and training. Recovery Workers also deliver treatment in partnership with your GP.
For more information visit City and Hackney Recovery Service. To refer or self-refer, use the online portal, email, or call 0345 144 0050, for advice on treatment or enquiries about drugs.
Change Grow Live (Alcohol and Drugs)
For adults 18+ with a drug or alcohol issue who are registered with a GP in Croydon. An individual recovery plan will be created with you. Support is also offered to friends and family of people who use substances. Opening times: Mon: 10am - 2pm; Tues: 10am - 7pm; Wed: 12pm - 5pm; Thurs: 10am - 7pm; Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 3pm; Sun: closed. You can self refer or be referred by a professional by phone, online, or drop in.
Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/drug-alcohol-croydon/info
Telephone: 0300 123 9288
Email: croydon.info@cgl.org.uk
Croydon Council (Alcohol)
For higher risk, non dependent drinkers, Live Well Croydon is an integrated 12 month behaviour change programme, offered to Croydon residents aged 16 years+. Residents meeting the risk factor criteria will be offered support to tackle negative lifestyle behaviours, such as stop smoking, healthy eating/weight management, reducing alcohol, increasing physical activity and improving mental wellbeing. Go to the Justbe website to undertake the health MOT.
Website: http://www.justbecroydon.org/
Telephone: 0800 019 8570
Email: livewell@croydon.gov.uk
Young People
For young people with a drug or alcohol issue. You can self refer or be referred by another professional by phone, online, or drop in. Opening times: Mon - Fri: 9.00am - 5.00pm. Sun: Closed.
Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/drug-alcohol-croydon/info
Telephone: 0300 123 9288
Email: croydon.info@cgl.org.uk
RISE
RISE is Ealing's integrated treatment system for adults with drug and/or alcohol problems living in Ealing. They provide a range of intensive treatment and rehabilitation services designed to meet individual needs and support the family/carers of the service user.
Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/rise-ealing/london
Telephone:
- 0800 195 8100 (24 hours)
- 020 8567 4772 (West Ealing site)
- 020 8843 5900 (Southall site)
Email: EalingRISE@cgl.org.uk
EASY
EASY is a support service for young people using drugs and alcohol. Support includes: advice, information, one-to-one sessions, group work, and regular appointments. The young person can choose where to meet the worker. When they book an appointment, they can choose what location might be best for them, for example at school or a local youth centre.
Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/easy-project-ealing/info
Telephone: 02085674772
Email: Easy.Project@cgl.org.uk
Enable - Enfield Alcohol and Drugs Service
We provide specialist treatment to anybody over the age of 18 living in Enfield who is worried about their alcohol or drugs use. We are open at our Claverings, Enfield site Monday to Friday 10:00hrs to 16:00hrs or at our Vincent House site Wednesday 16:00hrs to 19:00hrs. You can be referred by your GP or any professional agency or self refer.
Telephone: 0208 379 6010
Email: beh-tr.enable@nhs.net
Addresses:
Claverings, 12 Centre Way, Edmonton, London, N9 0AH.
Vincent House , 2e Nags Head Road Ponders End, EN3 7FN.
Enfield Sort it! Compass
Enfield Sort it! Compass is a free and confidential young people’s drug and alcohol treatment service for those up to the age of 18 who live in the borough of Enfield.
Compass supports young people to make positive health and lifestyle changes through interventions including talk therapies, advice, information and group work. Compass works together with the young person to create tailored care plans, putting them in control of their care.
Enfield Sort It! can accept referrals from the young person themselves, a concerned friend or family member, as well as from professionals who the young person is working with (the young person must consent to this). Referrals can be made by phone, by visiting the office or by using a referral form. If you feel you just need to talk it through anonymously, you can call the service for a confidential and informal conversation.
Website: https://www.compass-uk.org/
Telephone: 020 8360 9102
Email: compass.enfieldsortit@nhs.net
Address: Hub, 29 Folkestone Road, Edmonton, N18 2ER.
Westminster Drugs Project (WDP)
WDP Greenwich offers free and confidential help for local residents aged 18+
Local residents can call WDP or visit their website to access information on support and treatment for drug and alcohol use: Greenwich | Westminster Drug Project (wdp.org.uk)
Website: https://www.wdp.org.uk/greenwich
Telephone: 0300 303 4552
Address: 821 Woolwich Road, Charlton, SE7 8LJ
Live Well Greenwich
If you are worried about your drinking and want to find out how to make changes, take this quick quiz. It gives you useful information on what you can do and where you can get help and support if you need it.
Website: https://livewellgreenwich.org.uk/
Telephone: 020 3696 2640
Young People- YPSMS
If you are 18 or under, a care leaver aged 18-21, or up to 25 (disabled, SEND, and looked after child) you can contact the Young Peoples Substance Misuse Service.
Telephone: 020 8921 9607
Hackney Recovery Service
Delivered by Turning Point in partnership with Mind CHWF and Antidote, City and Hackney Recovery Service offers free, confidential and accessible substance misuse support and treatment to all Hackney residents.
Experienced staff within City and Hackney Recovery Service understand people have different support and treatment needs around the use of illicit drugs and alcohol and provide a full range of services from harm reduction interventions, to participating in more structured treatment, one-to-one support and clinical services.
Referrals into detox and rehabilitation services are always made as part of a care package to prepare individuals for inpatient treatment and to ensure there is aftercare for sustained recovery.
We will regularly review your care plan with you and adjust the plan to make sure you always receive the appropriate support at the appropriate time.
City and Hackney Recovery Service prioritises providing support for carers and families, benefits advice and re-integration activities delivering excellent women-only services, LGBTQA+ specific services, rough sleepers services, clear pathways from the criminal justice system into treatment, education and training. Recovery Workers also deliver treatment in partnership with your GP.
For more information visit City and Hackney Recovery Service. To refer or self-refer, use the online portal, email, or call 0345 144 0050, for advice on treatment or enquiries about drugs.
Young Hackney Substance Misuse Service
If you have any questions about alcohol and drugs and don’t know who to ask – the Young Hackney Substance Misuse team can help.
Maybe you want to know about the effects of drugs, what to do if you feel under pressure to take drugs or drink, or how to help a friend you think might have a problem with drugs or alcohol. It’s a free and confidential service for anyone aged under 25.
For more information and to contact the service, please visit our website.
Website: https://www.younghackney.org/advice/drugs-alcohol/young-hackney-substance-misuse-service/
Telephone: 020 8356 7377
Email: yhsms@hackney.gov.uk
Turning Point
The Recovery and Wellbeing Network offers advice and support for substance misuse issues for anyone aged over 18.
Website: http://wellbeing.turning-point.co.uk/centrallondon/
Telephone: 0330 303 8080
Email: recoveryandwellbeing@turning-point.co.uk
CGL
The Alcohol service offers advice and support for those with issues around alcohol misuse for anyone aged over 18. GPs, family members, carers and friends, or any other agency, such as social services, can refer someone into the service.
Telephone: 0800 014 7440
Email: thealcoholservice.info@cgl.org.uk
Resilience
Resilience is an integrated service dedicated to young people under 25 for support around Substance Use and/or Sexual Health. The service provides 1-1 support which can take place on a site convenient for the young person and at White City Community Centre.
The Grove Drug Service
Website: http://www.beh-mht.nhs.uk/
Telephone: 020 8885 6195 or 020 8365 9032
Email: beh-tr.thegroveservice@nhs.net
Address: 9 Bruce Grove, London, N17 6RA.
Haringey Advisory Group on Alcohol (HAGA)
HAGA offer support and advice to people in Haringey affected by alcohol addiction. Services include confidential advice and support, individual counselling and group sessions.
Website: http://www.haga.co.uk/
Telephone: 020 8800 6999
Address: 590 Seven Sisters Road, London, N15 6HR. (Opening times: 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.)
Bring Unity Back into the Community (BUBIC)
A local community drug and alcohol service set up by ex-drug users. They run support groups, a café, one to one advice, support to carers and other activities across Haringey to help people overcome problematic drug use.
Telephone: 020 8808 6550
Email: info@bubic.org.uk
Address: 9 Bruce Grove, London, N17 6RA.
One You Haringey
For local adult health advice and support on how to drink less alcohol.
Website: https://www.oneyouharingey.org/
Telephone: 020 8885 9095
Insight Platform
Insight Platform provides support for young people aged 13-21 with drug or alcohol issues.
Website: http://insightplatformharingey.co.uk/
Telephone: 0208 493 8525
Email: insightplatform@blenheimcdp.org.uk
Address: 40 Bromley Road, N17 0AW.
WDP Harrow Adult Substance Misuse Service
Our service is free and open to all Harrow residents aged 18 or over, as well as their families and carers. Any professional, such as housing support worker, social worker or nurse, can make the referral on your behalf. You can also visit our service in person or contact us by phone.
You will be able to talk to one of our duty team practitioners who will help you decide which service best meets your needs. Our team will then work with you to create a care plan which will be reviewed regularly.
Website: https://www.wdp.org.uk/find-us/london/harrow-0
Telephone: 0300 303 2868
Email: harrow@wdp.org.uk
Address: 44 Bessborough Road, Harrow, HA1 3DJ
Compass Young People’s Substance Misuse Service
A free, confidential service for children and young people who need support around their own or another person’s drug or alcohol (substance) use. Young people under 18 years of age can be referred to us and we can then work with them up to the age of 24.
Website: https://www.compass-uk.org/services/harrow-young-peoples-substance-misuse-service/
Telephone: 020 8861 2787 or 07917261962
Email: adminharrow@compass-uk.org
Address: Ground Floor, 21 Building, 21 Pinner Road, Harrow, Middlesex, HA1 4ES
Change, Grow, Live (CGL)
Aspire offer a free and confidential support service for individuals and their families affected by drug and alcohol problems. We operate from our bases on Romford High Street, as well as across other locations in Havering. Our service is free and open to anyone living in Havering aged 18 or over.
We focus on your recovery, and we'll design the treatment to help you achieve your goals. We offer:
- Harm reduction advice
- Access to substitute medication
- Referrals to residential and community detoxes and residential rehab
- Counselling
- One-to-one advice and group work programmes with specialist workers
At the moment, due to coronavirus, we're doing initial assessments over the phone or online. If you really need to, we can see you face to face.
Website: Info - Aspire - Havering | Change Grow Live
Referral: Referrals - Aspire - Havering | Change Grow Live
Telephone: 0170 8747 614
Email: havering.info@cgl.org.uk
Address: Aspire, Havering, Ballard Chambers, 26 High Street, Romford RM1 1HR
Addictions Recovery Community Hillingdon (ARCH) - CNWL
This free and confidential service which is available to young people and adults who live or are registered with a GP in Hillingdon. Many people turn to drink or drugs as a way of dealing with negative feelings, such as depression, stress, trauma or anxiety.
ARCH work with people at any stage of their alcohol or drug difficulties to provide a single point of access to assessment and treatment, for problems.
ARCH recognise the importance of providing treatment for both the substance misuse problem, as well as any associated emotional / mental health issues. At ARCH, employs; nurses, doctors, recovery workers, social workers, occupational therapists and clinical psychologists. We also offer an accredited peer mentor programme and provide volunteering opportunities and activities for all service users.
Website: https://www.archhillingdon.org/
Telephone: 01895 207 777
Email: arch.hillingdon@nhs.net
Address: Old Bank House, 64 High Street Uxbridge, Greater London, UB8 1JP.
SORTEDSORTED is a confidential service for 11 to 25 year olds in Hillingdon who are experiencing a drug or alcohol-related problem.
How can SORTED help?
- We listen carefully to you.
- We offer a range of support and treatment options, such as one-to-one counselling, relapse prevention, general health care, and family support.
- We offer an informal personal appointment system.
- We offer support and advice to family members and/or friends.
- We do not discuss your problems with anyone without you telling us it is OK to do so.
What will happen?
One of our workers will arrange an appointment with you, so you can:
- Meet and get to know each other
- Identify problems and agree some changes you want to make in your life
We aim to support and encourage you all the way. You choose when you feel you no longer need to meet with us.
Want to speak to us?
If you're ready to speak to someone and tell us what the problem is, contact SORTED in which ever way you are most happy.
Website: https://archive.hillingdon.gov.uk/article/30917/SORTED
Telephone: 01895 250 721
Email: youthops@hillingdon.gov.uk
Addiction Recovery Community (ARC) Hounslow - CNWL
ARC Hounslow is a service provided in partnership by CNWL and Phoenix Futures as a free and confidential service for people who live in the London Borough of Hounslow.
The service helps people break a cycle of addiction to substances such as heroin, cocaine, and new psychoactive substance as well as long term alcohol addiction. Many people turn to drink or drugs as a way of dealing with negative feelings, such as depression, stress, trauma or anxiety.
Website: https://www.cnwl.nhs.uk/service/addiction-recovery-community-arc-hounslow/
Telephone: 01895 488 675
Email: cnw-tr.archounslow@nhs.net
Address: Addiction Recovery Community (ARC) Hounslow, Montague Hall, Montague Road, Hounslow, TW3 1LD.
HYPE (Hounslow Young People Engaged) - CNWL
HYPE (Hounslow Young People Engaged) is the new-look Young People’s Drug and Alcohol service for the London Borough of Hounslow. It was previously known as Visions. The service works with young people under the age of 18 whose lives are affected by drugs and alcohol, including young people who have been affected by the negative experience of parental substance misuse.
We understand if drugs and alcohol are impacting on your life. We can work with you to provide you with treatment options that suit you.
Website: https://www.cnwl.nhs.uk/service/hype-hounslow-young-people-engaged/
Telephone: 020 8538 1150
Email: cnw-tr.hype@nhs.net
Address: HYPE, Addiction Recovery Community (ARC) Hounslow, Montague Hall, Montague Road, Hounslow, London, TW3 1LD.
Better Lives - Islington's Drug and Alcohol Service
Better Lives is an integrated drug and alcohol service delivered by Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust in partnership with WDP and Blenheim. We offer a free and confidential support service for individuals and their families affected by drug and alcohol problems.
Website: https://www.candi.nhs.uk/our-services/better-lives-islingtons-drug-and-alcohol-service
Telephone: 020 3317 6650
Email: cim-tr.betterlives@nhs.net
Address: Better Lives operates from multiple locations, which you can view under 'Where we are based' on the website.
For young people’s drug and alcohol service:
Telephone: 020 7527 5099
E-mail: drugs@islington.gov.uk
The Alcohol Service
The Alcohol Service provides support to anyone affected by alcohol use. They will work together with you to create a support plan to help you achieve your goals, meeting at a convenient venue for you, such as your local GP practice. Whether you are looking to stop drinking or cut down, or you have issues with the drinking behaviour of someone close to you, the Alcohol Service can support you to make changes and improve your lifestyle.
Telephone: 0800 0147 440
The Drugs and Alcohol Wellbeing Service (DAWS)
We're here to help you to address your drug and/or alcohol use, through one to one or group sessions. We can support you to quit, cut down, or manage your drinking or drug use: what happens is up to you.
Website: http://wellbeing.turning-point.co.uk/centrallondon/
Telephone: 0330 303 8080
The Club Drug Clinic (CDC)
The Club Drug Clinic is delivered through Central and North West London Mental Health Trust (CNWL) and is focussed on delivering specialised harm reduction and treatment services to residents who are using novel psychoactive substances problematically, have linked physical or psychological health problems, or who need formal treatment interventions to resolve their addiction.
Confidential advice line: 020 3315 6111
Email: clubdrugclinic.cnwl@nhs.net
Insight
Insight KC offers a free, friendly and confidential support service to young people living in Kensington and Chelsea aged between 12 and 25 with or affected by drug or alcohol issues as well as providing a stop smoking service.
Website: https://insightyoungpeople.org.uk/
Call us: 020 8960 5510
Text us: 07833074581
Email: insight@blenheimcdp.org.uk
Address: 51 Golborne Road, Ladbroke Grove, London, W10 5NR.
The School Health Service
The School Health service provides specialist public health nursing, advice, support and health promotion activities to school-age children and young people within state funded schools to promote their health and wellbeing
Duty Desk: 020 3317 4460
Email: cnw-tr.kandcshs.cnwl@nhs.net
Kingston e-Drink Check
If you are thinking about your drinking, e-drink-check is a free, tailored website tailored for Kingston residents that provides a discreet and flexible way of thinking about how much you are drinking and whether you would like to drink less or even stop altogether.
It contains information about alcohol and its effects as well as tools and tips for people wishing to moderate their drinking.
Website: https://e-drink-check.kingston.gov.uk/
Telephone: 020 8547 6815
Email: healthy.lifestyles@kingston.gov.uk
Kingston Wellbeing Service
Kingston Wellbeing Service offers a range of treatments for Kingston residents, aged 18 and over, who have problems with alcohol or drugs. We work with individuals at any stage of their problem. We provide a single point of access to assessment and treatment, including treatment of related depression and anxiety disorders.
Website: https://www.kingstonwellbeingservice.org/
Telephone: 020 3317 7900
Email: cim-tr.drug.alcohol@nhs.net
Address: Surbiton Health Centre, Ewell Road, Surbiton, KT6 6EZ.
Getting It On
Getting It On is dedicated to helping teenagers in South West London. We provide information and advice on key issues, including drugs and alcohol. Whatever the issue, hopefully our website can offer advice, or point you in the right direction to get the help you need.
Website: https://www.gettingiton.org.uk/
South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust
South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust are the lead provider working with 3 other specialist organisations in a consortium.
Drug and Alcohol Treatment, GP Shared Care, Recovery Support at the Harbour and Detox treatments at Lorraine Hewitt House.
Website: http://www.lambeth-drug-alcohol.co.uk/
Telephone:
- Lorraine Hewitt House: 0203 228 1500
- The Harbour: 0207 095 1980
- GP Shared Care: 0203 228 1510 or 0203 228 1500
Email: slm-tr.lambethdrugandalcoholteam@nhs.net
DASH Lambeth
DASH Lambeth is a drugs, alcohol and sexual health integrated service. The service supports young people under 21 and is delivered in a range of community venues across the borough. Lambeth is part of the London Healthy Schools programme and the local authority employs a PSHE, EHWB and healthy schools co-ordinator to work with schools.
Website: https://legacy.brook.org.uk/find-a-service/regions/london/dash-lambeth
Telephone: 07979 247941 or 07741 077932
Email: lambeth@brook.org.uk
New Direction
New Direction provides a flexible and confidential treatment and support service for adults with substance misuse issues living in Lewisham. Our service has a team that includes recovery workers, doctors, recovery nurses, counsellors, complementary therapists, volunteers and peer mentors.
Our service helps people to make and sustain the changes they need to reduce, and ultimately, stop their drug and alcohol use. We aim to empower service users to identify and realise their goals throughout their recovery journey to a healthier, safer life.
Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/content/new-direction-lewisham
Telephone: 020 8314 5566
Email: ND.Referrals@cgl.org.uk
Address: 410 Lewisham High Street, London, SE13 6LJ.
The Primary Care Recovering Service
Care Recovery Service (PCRS) provides a recovery-orientated model offering medication assisted treatment alongside psychosocial interventions for people living in Lewisham. We also offer an aftercare service that provides support and advice to people working on their recovery from drugs and/or alcohol, by building resilience and relapse prevention; alongside opportunities to gain and build skills to move on and out of treatment.
What we do: The service provides integrated drug and alcohol interventions, including Opioid Substitute Therapy (OST) working alongside GPs and pharmacists. The service also offers assessments, titration, detox, alcohol services, brief interventions and nurse-led community detoxifications. The service also provides intensive key working, group work, BBV screening and onward referrals.
Website: https://blenheimcdp.org.uk/services/lewisham-primary-care-recovery-service/
Telephone: 020 8699 5263
Email: pcrs.referrals@blenheimcdp.cjsm.net
Address: 55 Dartmouth Road, Forest Hill, SE23 3HN.
Compass - Lewisham's Young Peoples Health and Wellbeing Service
ChatHealth which, is a text messaging service to help young people in Lewisham to make achievable and sustainable lifestyle changes that improve their long term health, resilience and emotional wellbeing. The Lewisham Young Person Health and Wellbeing service is a Multidisciplinary team, consisting of Health and Well-being workers, Nurses, Counsellors & Support Workers.
Website: https://www.compass-uk.org/services/lewisham-compassthehub/
Telephone: 020 8690 3020
Email: LHWS@compass-uk.org.
Address: 38-39 Winslade Way, Catford, London, SE6 4JU.
WDP Merton
WDP Merton is a fully integrated, recovery-focused service delivered by WDP. We offer a free and confidential treatment and support for individuals and their families affected by drug and alcohol problems.
The specialist team includes substance misuse workers, doctors, nurses, as well as volunteers and peer mentors.
Website: https://www.wdp.org.uk/find-us/london/merton
Telephone: 0300 303 4610
Email: info.merton@wdp.org.uk
Address: 7-8 Langdale Parade, Mitcham, CR4 2YS.
Catch22 (Risk and Resilience Service)
This specialist service aims to increase young people’s engagement in diversionary activities that support reductions in the use of substances, and promote sexual health and positive health choices. Early intervention, prevention and resilience building activities are offered along with the direct provision of specialist substance misuse treatment for young people aged up to 24-years-old.
Website: https://www.catch-22.org.uk/services/merton-young-peoples-risk-and-resilience/
Telephone: 020 3701 8641
Email: msm@catch-22.org.uk
Address: The Chaucer Centre, Canterbury Road, Morden, London, SM4 6PX.
Newham Rise - Change Grow Live (CGL)
Newham Rise is a free and confidential drug and alcohol service for adults affected by substance use and their family and friends.
We offer a range of opportunities from workshops, brief interventions, structured groups and one-to-one key working sessions. We also have needle exchange where you can get harm reduction advice, blood borne virus testing (including HIV and Hep C), naloxone training, and access to other services.
We always welcome new clients, so please get in touch if you are interested in getting help from the service or you’d just like to ask some questions. Feel free to bring someone with you on your first visit.
We complete assessments Monday–Friday, between 11am-1pm. Please drop into any of our hubs before 11am if you would like an assessment on the day.
If you would like to refer yourself or someone else to the service you can call, email or visit the service in person. You can also complete our referral form in advance and either email it to us or bring it with you when you visit the service.
Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/content/cgl-newham-rise
Telephone: 0800 652 3879
Email: newham.referrals@cgl.org.uk
Address: 327 High Street (Stratford), 3 Beckton Road (Canning Town), and 997 Romford Road (Manor Park).
CGL Newham Young People's Service
Newham Young People's Service is a free drug and alcohol service for young people aged between 11 and 18 years old.
The service is for young people living in Newham who have questions or concerns about drugs or alcohol and would like information or advice. We will travel to a location convenient for you to meet face-to-face or we are available via phone, email, Facebook, or Twitter to talk with you.
We always welcome new clients, so please get in touch if you are interested in getting help from the service or you’d just like to ask some questions. Feel free to bring someone with you on your first visit.
Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/young-people/newham-young-peoples-service
Telephone: 0800 652 3879 or 07741 196424
Email: NewhamYP@cgl.org.uk
WDP R3 - Adults
R3 is a fully integrated, recovery-focused service delivered by Westminster Drug Project (WDP). We offer confidential support and treatment for individuals and their families affected by drug and alcohol problems. The service is free and open to all Redbridge residents aged 18 or over, as well as their families and carers.
Website: https://www.wdp.org.uk/find-us/london/redbridge
Telephone: 0300 303 4612
Email: info.R3@wdp.org.uk
Address: 3rd Floor, Ilford Chambers, 11 Chapel Road, Ilford, IG1 2DR.
WDP Young People - Fusion - Young People
We work with young people under the age of 18 who live in Redbridge or attend schools and colleges in the borough. We are flexible and can meet at a location accessible to our service users, such as schools, youth clubs or other local venues.
Website: http://www.wdpyoungpeople.org.uk/fusion-young-peoples-drug-and-alcohol-service/
Email: info.fusion@wdp.org.uk
Telephone: 020 8708 7801
Richmond Community Drug and Alcohol Service
Richmond Community Drug and Alcohol Service (known as RCDAS). The service is a consortium of providers and is led by South London and the Maudsley Mental Health Foundation Trust. We Are With You (formerly 'Addaction'), St Mungo's and CDARS make up the rest of the service.
Telephone: 020 3228 3020
Website: www.richmond.gov.uk/services/wellbeing_and_lifestyle/drug_and_alcohol_support
Email: RCDAS.Referrals@Slam.nhs.uk
RCDAS is located at Ilex House, 94 Holly Road, Twickenham, TW1 4HF.
Getting It On
Getting it On provide information and services for 13-19 year olds on sexual and mental health issues, drugs & alcohol and relationship problems.
Website: https://www.gettingiton.org.uk/services/richmond/drugs-alcohol
Telephone: 0333 300 2100 (SHSWL @ Off The Record or SHSWL @ The Acorn practice)
Alternatively, you can call the Young People's Drug and Alcohol Service for Kingston and Richmond on the number below.
Telephone: 020 8547 6920
Change, Grow, Live (CGL)
CGL Southwark is a free and confidential drug and alcohol service for adults over 18 who live in the London Borough of Southwark.
We support people from any background, using any kind of drug and/or alcohol, who want to recover or change. We work at all levels, from prevention and early engagement, through to recovery. We understand people may also be dealing with other issues and we offer a range of 'wrap around' services to support these. Service users are in control of their treatment and are supported to achieve their own recovery or change goals.
Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/content/cgl-southwark
Our Engagement Team is based at 146 Camberwell Road, London.
Telephone: 0208 629 2348
Email: CGL.southwark@cgl.org.uk
Our Prescribing Team is based at Cambridge House, 1 Addington Square, London.
Telephone: 0207 358 7266
Email: CGL.southwark@cgl.org.uk
If you would like to refer yourself or someone else to the service please complete the referral form and send it to CGL.southwark@cgl.org.uk
Healthy Young People (HYP) - Integrated Sexual health and Substance Misuse service provided by Brook and Change, Grow, Live
This service is for anyone living or going to school/college in Southwark under the age of 25. HYP Southwark outreach clinics have different services available depending on the location. HYP services open to all under 25s in Southwark.
Website: https://hypsouthwark.org.uk/about-hyp/
Telephone: southwark@brook.org.uk
Address: Cambridge House, 1 Addington Square, Camberwell, SE5 0HF. Services are also available at other locations. Drop-in service on Mondays and Thursdays afternoon.
Inspire Sutton
Inspire is a community drug and alcohol service for anyone over the age of 18 living in the London Borough of Sutton. You can refer yourself or be referred by your GP, housing provider, probation and other professionals.
The referral form for Inspire can be found here.
Website: https://www.cranstoun.org/service/inspire-sutton/
Telephone: 020 8773 9393
Email: info@inspirepartnership.org.uk
Address: Orion House, 19 Cedar Road, Sutton, SM2 5JG.
Switch Sutton
Switch Sutton is a young person’s alcohol and drug service for anyone up to the age of 18 living in Sutton. You don’t have to come to the service – we can meet you at home, at school, or college – wherever you feel most comfortable. We can also meet you out of hours.
The referral form for Switch can be found here.
Website: https://www.cranstoun.org/service/switch-sutton/
Telephone: 020 8773 9393
Email: info@inspirepartnership.org.uk
Address: Orion House, 19 Cedar Road, Sutton, SM2 5JG.
RESET, Tower Hamlets Drugs and Alcohol Service
Reset is an integrated service which provides drug and alcohol treatment to Tower Hamlets residents aged 18 or over and support to family and friends who are concerned about someone’s drug and/or alcohol use.
Support offered includes: advice and information for people who use drugs and/or alcohol and concerned others, community opiate substitute therapy and alcohol detoxification, healthcare assessments, testing for HIV, hepatitis B, C. Hepatitis B vaccination, access to needle exchange, assessment for residential detoxification and rehabilitation services, counselling and 1:1 keyworking support for clients experiencing domestic violence, onward referral to further support services as required, signposting and access to mutual aid groups such as AA, NA and Smart Recovery.
Telephone: 020 3889 9510
Email: reset.towerhamlets@cgl.org.uk
Compass, Safe East
The Tower Hamlets Integrated Young People’s Health and Wellbeing Service provides sexual health and substance misuse services to young people. Based on a hub and spoke model (a central clinical hub providing nurse-led care (e.g. insertion of long-acting reversible contraception) and ‘spoke’ venues in youth-friendly locations (e.g. youth centres and primary care venues) the service has been built around the needs of young people. It aims to offer a universal, targeted and specialist service that is welcoming, accessible and prevention-focused. It also works in partnership with schools, families and communities to help build young people’s resilience and life skills.
Website: https://www.compass-uk.org/services/tower-hamlets-compass-safe-east/
Telephone: 020 3954 0091
Email: compass.towerhamletsyphws@nhs.net
Address: Safe East Clinical Hub, 59 Mile End Road, Mile End, E1 4TT.
CGL Waltham Forest
CGL Waltham Forest provide drug and alcohol treatment and support services for children and adults who want to recover or change. CGL works at all levels, from prevention and early engagement, through to recovery. They support clients who may also be dealing with other issues and offer a range of 'wrap around' services.
Monday: 9.30am – 5.00pm
Tuesday: 9.30am – 8.00pm
Wednesday: 1pm – 5.00pm
Thursday: 9.30am – 8.00pm
Friday: 9.30am – 5.00pm
Open access:
Monday: 10am - 4pm
Friday: 10am - 4pm
CGL have an anonymous webchat service that young people, parents, concerned others and professionals can access Monday to Friday 1-4pm, via the CGL YP website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/young-peoples-drug-alcohol-service-waltham-forest/info#opening
Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/content/cgl-waltham-forest
Telephone: 0203 826 9600
Address: 1 Beulah Road, Walthamstow, London, E17 9LG.
Drinkcoach Waltham Forest
DrinkCoach Waltham Forest provide a quick and easy quiz for residents to understand their alcohol consumption and associated risk, and offer personalised online advice based on the results. A limited number of video support sessions with an alcohol specialist are also available (while sessions last) for Waltham Forest residents scoring as increasing or higher risk. Use the code WFPROMO on the booking page (available to adults over 18 only)
You can also download a free app to set goals and receive tips and regular motivation to help you cut down your drinking.
Wandsworth Community Drug and Alcohol Service (WCDAS)
This service offers:
- Substitute prescribing (Methadone, Subutex, etc.)
- Relapse prevention prescribing
- Overdose training and Naloxone dispensing
- Community alcohol and GBL detoxification
- Access to inpatient detoxification
- Chems/club drug clinic
- Alcohol treatment
- Clinic for pregnant drug and alcohol users
- Physical health check-ups and treatment
- Hepatitis A and B vaccinations
- Hepatitis C testing and treatment
- HIV testing
- Clinical & counselling psychology
- Psychosocial groups for relapse prevention and cannabis
- Stop smoking advice
Website: http://www.wcdas.com/
Telephone: 0208 812 4120
Address: 162 St John’s Hill, Battersea, SW11 1SW or 1079 Garratt Lane, Tooting, SW17 0LN.
Catch 22 - Wandsworth Young People’s Health Agency
Substance misuse and mental health services.
Website: https://www.catch-22.org.uk/services/wandsworth-young-peoples-health-agency/
Telephone: 07770573131
Email: yphealth.office@catch-22.org.uk
Address: 201-203 Lavender Hill, Wandsworth, London, SW11 5TB.
The Alcohol Service
The Alcohol Service provides support to anyone affected by alcohol use. They will work together with you to create a support plan to help you achieve your goals, meeting at a convenient venue for you, such as your local GP practice. Whether you are looking to stop drinking or cut down, or you have issues with the drinking behaviour of someone close to you, the Alcohol Service can support you to make changes and improve your lifestyle.
Telephone: 0800 0147 440
Drugs and Alcohol Wellbeing Service (DAWS)
We're here to help you to address your drug and/or alcohol use, through one to one or group sessions. We can support you to quit, cut down, or manage your drinking or drug use: what happens is up to you.
Website: http://wellbeing.turning-point.co.uk/centrallondon/
Telephone: 0330 303 8080
Club Drug Clinic
The Club Drug Clinic (CDC) delivered through Central and North West London Mental Health Trust (CNWL) is focused on delivering specialised harm reduction and treatment services to residents who are using novel psychoactive substances problematically, have linked physical or psychological health problems, or who need formal treatment interventions to resolve their addiction.
Confidential advice line: 020 3315 6111
Email: clubdrugclinic.cnwl@nhs.net
Insight
Insight Westminster offers a free, friendly and confidential support service to young people in Westminster aged between 12 and 25 with or affected by drug or alcohol issues as well as providing a stop smoking service. The service is available to young people living or attending schools within Westminster.
Website: https://insightyoungpeople.org.uk/
Call us: 020 8960 5510
Text us: 07833074581
Email: insight@blenheimcdp.org.uk
Address: 51 Golborne Road, Ladbroke Grove, London, W10 5NR.
The School Health Service
The School Health service provides specialist public health nursing, advice, support and health promotion activities to school-age children and young people within state funded schools to promote their health and wellbeing.
Duty Desk: 020 7758 0736