Change Grow Live Manchester

25/01/2026

🔄 Happy Opposite Day!

Today’s the day we flip things around—but when it comes to drug and alcohol use, there’s one thing we won’t reverse: our commitment to harm reduction.

Instead of judgment, we choose compassion.
Instead of stigma, we choose support.
Instead of ignoring the risks, we choose evidence-based care.

Harm reduction isn’t about saying “do the opposite”—it’s about meeting people where they are and helping them stay safe, healthy, and empowered.

✅ Safer choices save lives.
✅ Every step toward health matters.
✅ Recovery is possible—and it starts with understanding.

If you need support reach out, we are here to Help!

Let’s keep turning stigma on its head and championing approaches that work for everyone. 💙

21/01/2026

🎉 Day 21 of Dry January – You’re Bossing It! 🎉

Three weeks alcohol-free can bring amazing benefits:
✅ Better sleep
✅ Improved mood and mental clarity
✅ Boosted energy and fitness
✅ Healthier liver and body
✅ Extra money saved

You’ve come this far—keep going strong!

💡 Harm Reduction Advice:

If you’re cutting down or stopping drinking, do it safely.
Heavy drinker? Reduce gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Feeling unwell or shaky? Seek medical advice immediately.

🤝 Need Support?
CGL (Change Grow Live) offers free, confidential help for anyone looking to reduce or stop drinking.

👉 Find your local service: www.changegrowlive.org
📞 Or speak to your GP for guidance.

📲 Track your progress with the Try Dry® app and celebrate your success!

20/01/2026

🌟 Want to learn more about the support Change Grow Live provides in Manchester?

Join us tomorrow - 21st January, for an informative and interactive session designed to give professionals a clear understanding of the support available across Manchester.

📅 Book your free place here:
👉 https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/an-introduction-to-change-grow-live-for-partner-organisations-tickets-1977371506405?aff=oddtdtcreator
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🔎 What you’ll learn:

✨ Who Change Grow Live Manchester are
An overview of our service, specialist teams, and the people we support.

✨ How our teams work together
Discover how our outreach, young peoples, and family teams collaborate to provide holistic, person centred support.

✨ The service user journey
What support looks like from first contact all the way through psychosocial interventions.

✨ How we work in partnership
Including subcontracted services such as Emerging Futures, ACORN and LGBT Foundation, and how multi agency working helps us meet complex needs.

✨ Referral guidance
Clear information on how to refer and how we can support the people you work with.
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👥 Who should attend?
Perfect for professionals working in:
• Social care
• Probation
• Homelessness and housing
• Night time economy
• Health & community services

Also ideal for students, volunteers, or anyone interested in understanding the drug and alcohol support pathway.

We’d love to see you there! 💬💚

19/01/2026

💙 Blue Monday Reminder 💙

Whether or not one day can truly be “bluer” than another, Blue Monday is a cultural nudge to take mental health seriously. Depression, anxiety, and burnout don’t follow the calendar—but winter can be tough. For some, it’s seasonal affective disorder (SAD). For others, financial stress, social isolation, or the post-holiday slump.

Blue Monday isn’t about labelling a bad day—it’s about acknowledging that emotional lows deserve attention. It’s a reminder to ask, listen, and act with empathy—not just today, but every day.

✅ How to Cope:
• Connect with someone
• Move your body
• Limit negative input
• Create structure
• Be kind to yourself

📞 UK Support Helplines:
• NHS 111 – Medical advice
• Samaritans: 116 123 – 24/7 emotional support
• National Drugs Helpline: 0300 123 6600
• Alcoholics Anonymous: 0800 9177 650
🚨 In crisis? Call 999 or visit A&E

You’re not alone—support is always available. We are here to help, reach out if you need support.💙

16/01/2026

Winter can be challenging, especially when the days are short, cold, and, in typical Manchester fashion, rainy. However, there are simple ways to lift your spirits during the colder months.

✅Get Outside: Make the most of natural daylight by taking walks during the day. Even a brief stroll in the park can boost your mood and reduce feelings of loneliness.

✅Create Cosy Spaces: Rearrange your home to make it feel warmer and more inviting. Blankets, candles, or even string lights can create a comforting atmosphere without breaking the bank.

✅Stay Active: Exercise is a proven mood booster. Try free workout videos online or take advantage of local community centres offering classes.

✅Engage in the Community: Come along to some of the great things we have on offer! This will get you out of the house, and you might even learn something new.

15/01/2026

We’re halfway through Dry January!

Whether you’re trying to stop completely or just reduce the amount you’re drinking, reaching the halfway point is a big achievement 🌟

If you’ve been taking part in Dry January, have you noticed any changes to yourself, your life or your relationships?

Let us know in the comments 👇

Alcohol Change UK Dry January

14/01/2026

Stories of resilience, hope and healing through film 💛 Join Portraits of Recovery for a special screening and panel discussion exploring recovery and creativity. This Friday!

14/01/2026

🪁 Happy International Kite Day! 🪁

Did you know International Kite Day originated in Gujarat, India, celebrated every year on January 14th during the festival of Makar Sankranti? It marks new beginnings—just like recovery.
Flying a kite reminds us that:

Balance matters—stay grounded while reaching for your goals.
Small steps lead to big heights—progress takes time.

🎯 Recovery & Harm Reduction Tips:

If you’re using substances, plan ahead to reduce risks:

Never mix substances.
Stay hydrated and eat well.
Reach out for support when you need it.

💬 Need help or someone to talk to?

Change Grow Live (CGL): changegrowlive.org
Drinkline: 0300 123 1110
Samaritans: 116 123 (Free, 24/7)
NHS 111: For urgent health advice

Just like a kite, you can rise above challenges with the right support and care. 💙

12/01/2026

We are recruiting NOW!!!

Over 30 different roles are available for application in Change Grow Live Manchester on our website.

Please follow the link below to apply:
https://volunteers-changegrowlive.icims.com/jobs/intro...

Our volunteers hold a truly diverse range of meaningful roles and volunteer with us for all sorts of different reasons.

Here’s what some of our volunteers said about their experiences:

“It definitely gives me a purpose and it helps me grow within myself." - Hayley

"The support I got was essential for me and my family, so if I can give a bit back and see somebody thrive in their life then that benefits not only them, but it benefits me." - Ian

"It’s so inspiring to hear everyone’s stories and see what everyone’s overcome." - Niamh

If your New Year’s resolution is to make a difference to people’s lives, head to our website to hear from more from our volunteers and find out how you can get involved:

https://www.changegrowlive.org/careers-volunteering/volunteer-video-diaries

11/01/2026

Today is Human Trafficking Awareness Day, a chance to highlight an issue that impacts millions worldwide. Trafficking exploits people for work, s*x, or other abuses, often targeting the most vulnerable.

It’s a hidden crime, but we can all help. Look out for signs like someone seeming scared, controlled, or unable to speak freely. Together, we can aim for a world where everyone is free and safe.

09/01/2026

Introducing Believe in People: Extra.

A short-form series where we revisit powerful moments from the Believe in People podcast archive. We’re reposting selected historic episodes with remastered audio, giving these stories the space and clarity they deserve.

Presented by series producer Robbie Lawson, Believe in People: Extra brings you reflections, context and standout conversations from across the journey so far.

New, familiar, and still rooted in real stories of addiction, recovery and change.

Available now. 🎧