One of the first support groups aimed solely at families caring for someone with a drug or alcohol addiction is being offered in Bedfordshire.
Local charity Carers in Bedfordshire have joined forces with Milton Keynes based DAFS (Drug Alcohol Family Support) to form a group for families of loved ones with an addiction. The group aims to help families to cope, reduce fears, talk through what is happening around them with people that can relate and understand, to help them to laugh again and above all give hope that things can change.
Support Worker at Carers in Bedfordshire Nicola Harris, who has been instrumental in setting up the group, said: “There are many support groups out there for those with addictions to help that person to become less dependent on drugs or alcohol, and help them to live a healthier lifestyle. However, there is little support out there for the families involved in looking after someone with an addiction, which can have a devastating effect on loved ones.
“We know following lockdown the number of people out there with drug and alcohol problems has dramatically increased and dealing with a family member with addictions can make you feel extremely isolated, stressed, frustrated and worried. We want to support you, give you confidence that there is a group in Bedfordshire that can give you confidentiality, a safe place for you to express any concerns, to ask for advice or to simply make friends with people who have had lived in experiences of loved ones with addictions.
“We know how hard it is to come forward and admit your loved one has a problem. But we promise you it is a safe, confidential environment and you’ll be pleased for making that first step in helping you to cope better.”
The group will meet the second Wednesday of the month, starting on 15 September, at 7.30pm, at the Carers in Bedfordshire office, in the Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford. The next meeting will be 13 October.
Carers in Bedfordshire provides support for unpaid carers throughout Bedfordshire. A carer is anyone who cares, unpaid, for their friend or family member who due to illness, disability, mental health problems or an addiction, cannot cope without their support, or need extra help as they grow older.
If you care for someone with an addiction contact Carers in Bedfordshire on 0300 111 1919 and visit www.carersinbeds.org.uk/events/drug-and-alcohol-family-support-group/2021-09-15/ for further information about the group and to register.
