The cost of addiction does not just affect the person using substances, but the wider effect can be seen on family and friends.

Family and friends play a crucial part in the lives of the people using substances and are entitled to help in their own right.

Below you can find some information specifically tailored to help families and carers who find themselves in these situations.

VOCAL Midlothian

VOCAL supports all unpaid carers in all family relationship settings. They have a dedicated Family Support Addictions Worker in place to support family members and friends affected by someone else’s alcohol or drug misuse.

Tel: 0131 663 6869

Web: www.vocal.org.uk

MELD Open Service

When someone is missing substances it does not only affect them, it also has a huge impact on the lives of those close to them. This can put a strain on your own lives, your relationships, finances and wellbeing. If you have been affected by or are worried about someone else’s substance misuse, then you can refer yourself directly.

Tel: 0131 446 4833

Web: www.meld-drugs.org.uk

Children 1st 

Children 1st Family Wellbeing Hud Midlothian offers support to children and their families impacted by parental substance use whether it is current, historic or involves intergenerational experience ie through a grandparent. The support is relational, trauma-informed and child-centred. We will work with you and your family to better understand the challenges you face, and develop a joint plan with you to ensure you get the support you need. The service has peer support and project workers in the team, who can offer one-to-one and whole family support to help keep you family safe, link you in with community supports, strengthen family relationships and support children and their families to better manage big feelings. There is also an option for support from our financial wellbeing advisor, to attend to stress related to the impact of poverty and financial hardship. The service also offers opportunities for group-based support for parents focussing on positive wellbeing, along with family-based activity sessions for fun.

ParentLine

For anyone caring for or concerned about a child, whatever it is that affects your family, you can talk it over with us. We are here for you at the end of a phone or you can webchat, send an email or text.

Tel: 08000 28 22 33

Web: Parentline Scotland

Local Peer Groups

Prestonpans Family Support Group

The group offers support and information to families and friends of anyone who is affected by others substance misuse. The group meet fortnightly on a Monday and is service user led.

Tel: 01875 815 221 / Mob: 07795602572

Web: Prestonpans Family Support Group

Midlothian Family Support Group

The group is run by family members and supports family members who’s loved ones have struggled with alcohol and/or drug use.

Tel: 07845557503

Web: Midlothian Family Support Group

Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs (SFAD)

SFAD supports parents, families, friends and carers of people with drug and/or alcohol problems wherever they are in Scotland. All support services are free, which include the helpline, bereavement counselling, family support groups and over the phone support.

Tel: 08080 10 10 11 

Web: www.sfad.org.uk

Substance Use: It’s Everyone’s Responsibility

Substance Use: It’s Everyone’s Responsibility