Wear Recovery - Sunderland

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Are you a relative, friend or carer affected by someone’s drug and/or alcohol use?

We're here to help

Caring Changes is a support service within Wear Recovery for adults affected by a loved one’s substance use.

We offer information, support, advice and opportunities for you. There are friendly and safe places across Sunderland for you to meet with people who have experienced similar situations.

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What we do

Our aim is to help family and friends maintain a balance between their caring responsibilities and a life outside their role, and to improve their own health and wellbeing so that they can stay well and continue to support their loved one.

Our service can offer:

  • One-to-one practical and emotional support
  • Group work
  • Wellbeing activities
  • Weekly arts and crafts workshop
  • Peer support
  • Training

Hear from the people we have supported

"The Caring Changes team have been an immense support to me. This was the first time I felt I was able to open up fully to someone who understands the life I’m living. I’m so grateful to have this support and would recommend anyone who is trying to muddle through to make the call and seek support."

"So thankful for the much-needed support I receive from Caring Changes; it's a lifesaver for me. Help and advice is a phone call away. Knowing you are not alone, others are in same situation, who can offer advice, support and friendship, group activities which offer much needed 'me time.'"

"I have been taught that I have a life and should live it. Everyone is very understanding, and they help to make the right decision."

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Meet our team

The Caring Changes team consists of three Family and Carers Practitioners: Caroline, Courtney and Linsey.

We all have different backgrounds, and we all share our passion for this role.

Caroline has years of experience from a background supporting people with substance use, housing and mental health.

Courtney is the newest member of the team, bringing in depth knowledge from her years of working within prison establishments and in teaching roles.

Linsey has a wealth of experience working with people with various support needs to make sure their voices are heard.

Contact us

Phone: 0800 234 6798

Email: [email protected]

Getting support from Caring Changes

To get support from Caring Changes, please call Wear Recovery on 0800 234 6798 during our opening hours.

You can also complete our short online form, which asks you for information to see whether our service is appropriate for you. We will then contact you to offer you an assessment appointment.

Professional referrals: Referrals are welcome from any professional. Please call us on the number above to discuss further.

Onward referrals: We can refer families and their individual members to a wide range of appropriate and relevant services.