A pilot alcohol helpline has recently been launched in Luton!
The pilot helpline has involved a collaboration of different partners, including Luton Council, support from the University of Bedfordshire and ResoLUTiONs.
The helpline offers support and advice for people with mild to moderate alcohol problems who do not meet the threshold for more specialised alcohol services.
The helpline will be able to support people who might be concerned about their drinking but may feel reluctant or unready to contact specialist services. It has been designed to support people from all walks of life who suspect they could be drinking a bit too much but don’t feel it’s enough to contact any of the main services.
Sally Cartwright, Director of Public Health for Luton, said: “Many people with alcohol problems do not or will not seek treatment from alcohol services due to a range of barriers. These include stigma and shame, service opening hours that don’t work for them, and practical issues such as transport and caring responsibilities.
She also hopes that this new telephone service "will help overcome some of these known barriers by providing a greater degree of anonymity, convenience and extended-service hours.
Ultimately it will help those people who want to make a change for the better to live a longer, healthier life.”
James’ Story
The campaign features a powerful story from Geri, whose loving partner James died from the long-term effects of alcohol. You can watch it here (opens in a new window).
Geri said: “I want to tell James’ story because I want others to realise the impact alcohol has on your body and I don’t want anybody to go through what we have been through.
So please if you feel that you, a loved one or a friend might be drinking a bit too much, and you don’t know how to make that first step, call the helpline now.
I firmly believe that if the helpline had been in operation at the time, it might have saved James’ life.”
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