Help For Families & Carers

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

Children First

Children First Family Wellbeing Hud Midlothian offers support to children and their families impacted by substance use by a parent or carer whether it is current or from past experience. The support is relational, trauma-informed and child-centred, taking a whole family approach to understanding what you need. We have peer support workers and project workers who can offer individual and whole family support, helping to keep your family safe, link you in with community supports, strengthen family relationships and support children and families to better manage big feelings.

There is also an option for support from our Money advisor, to attend to stress related to the impact of poverty and financial hardship. This can be accessed via the Children First Supportline – see details below

Supportline

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: Edinburgh | Children First

Peer support (could this go in the dedicated peer support section?)

Children First Moving On Together:

Weekly drop in group focused on supporting parents impacted by their own or someone elses substance use. The group takes a wellbeing approach, offering opportunities for support, connection and fun in a warm, supportive environment.

Wednesdays 9.30 – 12.30pm (call 01316549540 or email midlothian@childrenfirst.org.uk for more info). Alternatively drop in to the office 40/9 Dalhousie Road, Hardengreen Business Park, EH22 3NU

Children First Mens Group:

2 weekly drop in for men impacted by a loved ones substance use.

Are you a man or a father who is affected by alcohol or drug use in the family? Would you benefit from meeting with others who also share your lived experience? Come along to our men’s group where you will have the opportunity to share your experiences with people who understand and can support you in living with the alcohol or drug use of a family member.

Every second Monday 6.30 – 8.30pm. For further info call 0131 6549540 or email midlothian@childrenfirst.org.uk for more info). Alternatively drop in to the office 40/9 Dalhousie Road, Hardengreen Business Park, EH22 3NU