We Are With You

17/10/2025

Today, the Office for National Statistics has published its annual report on drug-related deaths in England and Wales.

5,565 deaths related to drug poisoning were registered in 2024, the highest number since records began in 1993.

Our Chief Executive, Simon Phillips, responds on behalf of WithYou.

“Each drug-related death is a preventable, avoidable tragedy. Behind the numbers are real people, with family and friends grieving their loss. My thoughts are with them today.

“With the rise in synthetic opioids and contaminated drugs, the drug supply is becoming more complex and dangerous. The government must continue to invest in high quality treatment that anyone can access.

“There’s no single quick fix for this complex problem. The government can tackle this public health crisis by concentrating on saving lives now, helping people recover over time, and addressing the root causes for the future. This requires coordinated action. At WithYou we work closely with local partners to ensure treatment is accessible and effective, but systemic change requires continued government investment.

“We urge the government to do more to explore the feasibility of interventions proven to save lives, such as making it easier for drug checking services to operate in local communities, enabling people to assess risks and avoid contaminated substances. Continuing to expand naloxone provision and exploring the introduction of drug consumption rooms could also play an important, practical role in saving lives today. We can’t keep watching people die while proven interventions sit on the shelf.

“We are absolutely committed as an organisation to doing everything we can to reduce these preventable deaths. We know that with the right support, many of the people who died from drug use could still be alive today. The causes of this crisis are complex and long-standing, but these deaths are not inevitable, and we can’t stand by and accept them.

“For anyone who is worried about their drug use, or that of someone close to them, we are here to help. Our webchat, available at wearewithyou.org.uk, offers free, confidential advice from expert recovery workers.“

17/10/2025

🌿 Can you get addicted to cannabis?
In short, yes. While not everyone who uses cannabis becomes physically addicted to it, it can be habit-forming. Roughly 10% regular users develop a dependency.

If you feel anxious without it, struggle to cut down, or rely on it to cope, it might be time to check in with yourself. Cannabis use can impact your mental health, motivation, and memory - but support is available.

💬 Find out more about cannabis use at 👉 wearewithyou.org.uk

16/10/2025

Our Young People’s Team is out at the Annual Wigan Healthy Schools Celebration today! 🎉

It’s amazing to see all the fantastic Health & Wellbeing work happening across Wigan schools 💚 We're here to support with vital drug & alcohol harm reduction resources, helping to keep young people educated and informed.

Come say hi 👋 We’ve got plenty of useful drug and alcohol leaflets and free anti-spiking bottle toppers!✨

15/10/2025

Great turnout at our Stoke-on-Trent Community Drug & Alcohol Service Open Day! 🙌

We were delighted to welcome the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Stoke-on-Trent, along with local partners and residents who came to see our new service space firsthand.

Guests got hands-on with group sessions and life-saving naloxone training, and met the team providing vital support. We're so grateful for the community's continued support and partnership. 💙

14/10/2025

🌱 Every journey starts with a single step.
Setting realistic, measurable goals can help you make small changes that lead to big transformations over time.

✨ A realistic goal is one that fits your life right now - something achievable and manageable.
Yes, big goals like quitting drinking or drug use are powerful, but they can also feel overwhelming.

💡 Break those big ambitions into smaller steps. Whether it’s improving your health, getting outdoors more, or reducing your substance use - progress happens one goal at a time.

🎯 And don’t forget the fun stuff! Setting goals that bring you joy boosts feel-good hormones and keeps you motivated.

💬 Want tips on how to set realistic goals that actually work for you?
👉 Visit: wearewithyou.org.uk/advice-and-information/advice-for-you/how-to-set-realistic-goals

You're not alone. We're With You every step of the way. 💙

12/10/2025

Access to support matters - especially in times of crisis. 🤗

When life feels overwhelming, people are more vulnerable to mental health struggles and harmful substance use. Without the right care, the cycle of distress and dependence can deepen.

What helps?
✔️Safe, non-judgemental spaces to talk
✔️Joined-up mental health & substance use support
✔️ Community, connection, and practical tools

🌟 There are five key things that strengthen recovery in a crisis:
🛡️ Safety: Knowing how to protect your wellbeing
🌿 Calming: Finding healthy ways to cope and alternatives to substances
🤝 Connectedness: Support from others who care
💪 Confidence: Feeling able to make positive choices
✨ Hope: Believing that things can get better and recovery is possible

WithYou is here for you every step of the way - on World Mental Health Day and every day after. Looking for support? Speak to a trained recovery worker via our webchat at wearewithyou.org.uk

10/10/2025

10/10/2025

You’re not alone. Support is available. There is always hope. ❤️

Whether it’s you or someone you care about, when someone is struggling it’s important to know what help is available.

If you or someone you know is finding things difficult, there are several ways to get support:
📞 NHS 111 – Option 2: For urgent mental health help
📞Hopeline247 – available 24/7, 365 days a year – call 0800 068 41 41
📞 Samaritans: Available 24/7, 365 days a year – call 116 123
🏠 EPiC HOPE CIC: Visit one of the welcoming harbours across the borough for a safe space and support

You can also explore a wide range of mental health resources and useful contacts by clicking the link in the comments.

10/10/2025

🧠💚 10 October is World Mental Health Day - a day to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and remind everyone that good mental health is possible for all.

But we can’t ignore the powerful link between mental health and substance use, especially in times of crisis. Getting the right support at the right time can help break the cycle, build resilience, and support recovery. 💪

This World Mental Health Day, WithYou is proud to share and celebrate the journeys of those in recovery.

💬 Reach out through our free, confidential webchat at wearewithyou.org.uk, or come see us in service. You're not alone.

08/10/2025

🎉 Today we're at Robin Park Leisure Centre for Octoberfest - don’t forget to stop by our stall and say hi to the team! We’re on hand for all your harm reduction needs today. No judgment, just honest conversations and helpful info. 💬✨

Got questions about alcohol or other substances? Want to learn how to stay safe while still enjoying yourself? Our friendly team is here to help. 🙌

Swing by, grab some resources and have a quick convo, or just say hi!

08/10/2025

Highland Anywhere is now live!

Scotland's first fully virtual drug and alcohol support service is here, bringing free, confidential help to anyone 16+ across the Highlands.

Whether it's for you or a loved one, connect your way:

📞 Phone
💻 Video call
💬 Text

Our team is available Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm, with flexible appointments including evenings and weekends.

Get in touch today 👉 wearewithyou.org.uk/local-hubs/highland

07/10/2025

🧠💬 As World Mental Health Day approaches (Friday, Oct 10), let’s talk about the connection between mental health and substance use.

🔄 It's a two-way street:
✅ Not everyone with a mental health condition uses substances.
✅ Not everyone who uses substances has a mental health condition.
⚖️ But nearly half of people in substance use treatment also live with mental health challenges.

Some turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with anxiety, low mood, or trauma, but this can make things worse. Others may develop substance issues first, which can then trigger or intensify mental health struggles.

Emergencies and disasters often impact mental health too. In times of crisis, people often face:
😔 Anxiety, sadness, hopelessness, fatigue
🚨 Increased risk of PTSD, depression, and substance use
➡️Turning to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope
🚫 Barriers to care, just when support is needed most

If you’re looking for support, get in touch with the WithYou team on our webchat at wearewithyou.org.uk
We’re WithYou, every step of the way. 💙

06/10/2025

Last week, we celebrated our Recovery Awards in partnership with BAC O'Connor Centres, to honour both current and past recovery graduates, recognising their courage and dedication.

We heard inspiring stories of hope with each award winner proving that recovery is real and with strength and the right support, lasting positive change can be achieved. It was a day filled with celebration, community spirit and recognition. 💙

04/10/2025

🌿 As the seasons shift, so can our moods, routines, and recovery journeys. It’s okay to feel off balance, change isn’t always easy.

✨ Give yourself grace. Rest when you need to. Reach out to us when you’re struggling. Growth isn’t always visible, but every small step counts.

You’re not alone. We’re withyou. 💚

03/10/2025

With Storm Amy set to be making its arrival to the borough in the next few hours, we wanted to share how we are preparing for the weather warning.

It's expected to be wet and windy from Friday afternoon and overnight into Saturday and we know that some areas of our borough are at risk of localised flooding.

Pre-emptive action is already taking place across the borough, with emergency teams from the council and its partner agencies on 24/7 standby to respond if needed.

Residents wishing to report incidents concerns about imminent risk or actual risk of flooding to their homes and wishing to report the incident to Wigan Council should do so as follows:

• During normal working hours telephone 01942 404364 or 01942 489004
• Out of hours telephone 01942 404040

If there is foul water in the flood water resident should also contact United Utilities on 08545 602 0406

With a risk of localised flooding, sign up for flood warnings here:
https://orlo.uk/9r1lM

For advice on how to prepare for flooding and what to do if a flood occurs, visit:
https://orlo.uk/ATNvF

Visit the Met Office website for more information on the weather warnings:
https://orlo.uk/matva

Please check back on our page for any updates over the weekend.

03/10/2025

🚨 Let’s Talk about Ketamine and Bladder Health 🚨

Last week, our amazing clinical team visited Wigan UTC to wrap up Urology Awareness Month 👏

They spoke with local young people about the serious impact ketamine can have on your bladder and overall health. 💬📚 Leaflets were shared, conversations were had, and support options were made clear. It's great to see our team working alongside the nurses at Wigan UTC! 🙌

💡 If you or someone you know is struggling with ketamine use or you are noticing bladder issues, you're not alone. We’re here to help.

👉 Get in touch with the team. Visit for all our details: wearewithyou.org.uk/local-hubs/wigan-and-leigh

01/10/2025

30/09/2025

New research from King's College London found ketamine deaths are now twenty times higher than in 2015 – with deaths increasingly occurring in situations where someone has taken a mix of drugs together.

Kate Blazey, Executive Medical Director for WithYou, responds:

“Ketamine is often used as a party drug and has become more popular in recent years because of how readily available and cheap it has become. We're seeing it increasingly used by older adults, particularly with other drugs.

“In a very short period of time, ketamine can cause permanent damage to the body, including issues like bladder problems, changes in mental health and memory, and damage to the nose, liver and kidneys. Across England, we are working with our partners to support young people - under the age of 25 - who have already lost control of their bladders.

“There isn’t a quick fix for this issue. Since the previous reclassification of ketamine from Class C to Class B in 2014, ketamine use has doubled. However, sharing harm reduction information and ensuring comprehensive government-funded support is available for anyone who wants to reduce or stop their ketamine use, are proven ways we can help to prevent harm.

“Today my thoughts are with those who have lost a loved one. If you’re concerned about someone's drug or alcohol use, or just want to know more, we are here to help. Our webchat, available at wearewithyou.org.uk, offers free, confidential advice from expert recovery workers."

29/09/2025

Great to see our Glasgow colleagues take part in this year's Recovery Walk in Stirling!

26/09/2025

To everyone on the path of recovery, this month we are proud of you.

Recovery isn’t easy. It takes courage to face pain and strength to keep moving forward.

But step by step and day by day, you’re proving how strong you are. Keep believing in yourself.

26/09/2025

📋 What are the symptoms of ket bladder?
Early symptoms include:
Needing to urinate more frequently
Feeling like you need to urinate even when your bladder isn’t full
Pressure or pain behind pelvic bone
If the damage continues you may also experience:
Incontinence (urine leaking)
Blood in urine
Erectile dysfunction in men

⚠️ What should I do if I think I have ket bladder?
It’s important to talk to your GP about the symptoms you are experiencing. You can also talk to our trained advisors about your ketamine use on our free and confidential webchat. Visit wearewithyou.org.uk.

23/09/2025

Today the National Records of Scotland published its annual report on alcohol-related deaths in Scotland.

During 2024, there were 1,185 alcohol-specific deaths registered in Scotland, a decrease of 7% compared with 2023.

Behind every statistic is a person — a daughter, brother, partner, neighbour, or friend. Each with their own story and connections, each leaving a space in the lives of those who loved them. We hold in our thoughts all who experienced loss due to alcohol-related causes in 2024.

Louise Stewart, Director for Scotland, speaks on behalf of WithYou:

“While today’s report shows our treatment and harm reduction approaches are beginning to make a difference, the loss of 1,185 lives in 2024 makes it clear that much more must be done.

“To demonstrate a real commitment to reducing alcohol-specific deaths, we are calling for alcohol care and treatment standards that ensure that people who need support now have a choice of treatment, as well as access to support and harm reduction measures, wherever they are in Scotland.

“We urge the Scottish Government to implement a comprehensive alcohol strategy that properly invests in prevention and to take urgent, ambitious, and far-reaching action to prevent today’s children and young people from becoming figures in a report published 10, 20, or even 30 years from now.

“For me, that means taking a whole-population approach to addressing health inequalities and improving quality of life in our most deprived communities, where you are 4.5 times more likely to die from an alcohol related death. Only by tackling root causes and our attitudes towards alcohol can we really turn the tide to stop Scotland’s harmful relationship with alcohol.

“Today, my thoughts are with all those who we lost to an alcohol-related death, and with their families and friends.

“To anyone who is worried about their drinking or that of a loved one, please get in touch. As well as delivering services in communities, WithYou offers a free and confidential webchat. This is a great first point of contact for anyone who is worried about their alcohol use or that of a loved one. Visit wearewithyou.org.uk today.”

23/09/2025

You’ve just watched your 20th ADHD reel in a row.
Maybe you see yourself.
Maybe you’re wondering if meds would help.
Maybe you’ve already tried something with no prescription.

It’s more common than you think.
People self-medicate for ADHD to cope.
To focus. To feel normal. To survive.

But DIY routes come with risk:
⚠️ Unknown strength
⚠️ Dependency
⚠️ Delayed diagnosis
⚠️ Crashes that hit hard

We’re not here to judge. We’re here to help.

✅ If this speaks to you, speak to your GP, check out adhduk or visit adhduk.co.uk
✅ If you’re using, stay safe. Know the risks. Take breaks.
✅ If you’re not, stay curious but stay safe.

18/09/2025

Some people with undiagnosed or unsupported ADHD are turning to co***ne, not for fun, but to feel “normal.”

Co***ne increases dopamine, which can offer temporary relief from ADHD symptoms.
But it comes with serious risks:
• Compulsive redosing
• Emotional crashes
• Delayed diagnosis
• High risk of dependency

If you’re using coke to cope, you’re not alone.