Taking Action on Addiction is a large-scale, multi-partner, public-facing crusade.
It aims to reframe existing perceptions of addiction and build awareness of the causes and nature of addiction to improve understanding, reduce prejudice and enable more people to get the help they need.
It calls for increased access to treatment, support and care so that recovery can be possible for everyone. The campaign launches during Addiction Awareness Week, running October 18-24, 2021, when we’ll be sharing inspiring stories from our community.
It was a pleasure to attend the campaigns’ launch event in Picadilly.
CEO Martin Blakebrough took the opportunity to tell Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cambridge all about the work of our Naloxone champions Kim, Leighton and Mick and our partnership working here in Wales.
We’re standing with our incredible partners – Amy Winehouse Foundation, Phoenix Futures, Steps 2 Recovery, Faces & Voices of Recovey UK, Nacoa and Music Support – to end the stigma surrounding addiction.
"People may think they will be judged or that their problem isn’t bad enough for them to need help. Since being more open I have found that more people speak to me about their own struggles."
From homeless to thriving, Jade has come a long way. She shares her story in the hope that others will get the help they need to become happier and healthier. There's no shame in speaking out.
Meet Jade
"It was a slippery slope. Before I knew it I was relying on alcohol to feel I belonged – to be outgoing, funny, one of the lads – it just got worse from there."
Addiction can happen to anyone. Champion Boxer Russell was making a name for himself in the ring. But talent and success can't always protect you.
Meet Russell
"I used to get up at about 4am, and if I didn't have a drink I'd be shaking. I didn't want people to see the person I'd become."
After retirement, Alan's drinking spiralled. He tried to hide the extent of his problem from his wife and children, but he knew he needed help. Don't let stigma allow you to suffer in silence.
Meet Alan
"Most people had a really difficult 2020, but I can honestly say it was the best year of my life. I have a girlfriend, a new home. Life is good."
Cullan struggled with severe OCD and spent his twenties trapped in the cycle of addiction and offending. A health scare changed his life, now he's a successful podcaster helping others.
Meet CullanLeighton spent years in active addiction, now he's saving lives in Wales' first peer to peer Naloxone pilot. We do recover.
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