Drugs and alcohol-related problems

If you or someone close to you is concerned about drugs or alcohol, there is a range of information and advice available.

If you live in Westmorland & Furness and want help/support, there are a wide variety of services, opportunities, treatments, and therapies for people seeking help in tackling their own drug or alcohol use, or that of a loved one. 

Services for young people (Under 18)

Services for anyone under the age of 18 are available via the Youth Substance Misuse Service.

The service will start by assessing the issue and then develop a tailored intervention package. This includes harm reduction and drugs education, as well as support in making and maintaining change. 

To refer into this service, the below referral form can be completed and sent to the email address highlighted within the form. 

For informal queries please contact: youthsubstancemisuse.waf@cumbria.gov.uk where a call back will be organised. 

Services for adults (18+)

Drugs and alcohol services for adults in Westmorland and Furness are currently provided by Recovery Steps Cumbria. The services available for adults include (but are not limited to):

  • needle exchanges
  • advice on harm reduction
  • psychosocial interventions
  • substitute prescribing
  • group work

To refer into or find further information on Recovery Steps Cumbria, please visit their website.

Carers Service

The Carers Service for those affected by Drug and Alcohol use is provided by The Well. The service is set up to offer help, connection and guidance to carers and/or families of people who struggle with addiction and offers both 1:1 work and groups. Further information on this service can be found on The Well's website.

More information

For general advice information about alcohol, visit NHS One you – Drink less and Drinkaware.

For information about drugs, visit Talk To Frank.