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Drugs, alcohol and mental health services
Alcohol and drugs are often seen as a "cause" of domestic violence - but this is a myth.
While problematic alcohol or drug use - by either the perpetrator or the victim - can make the situation worse, the use of substances does not in itself lead to violence: many men are abusive whether or not they have been drinking, and many people drink without becoming violent. Abusers may also blame their violent behaviour on being drunk or stoned at the time.
When one or both partners have been drinking, the violence tends to be more severe, and the victim less able to protect herself; she may also be taken less seriously when she reports the abuse.
Accessing support and advice for alcohol or drug problems will not stop the abuse, particularly emotional abuse and controlling behaviours. (adapted from www.womensaid.org.uk)
If you are looking for help and support for your own drinking problem, the links below may help you:
Adults
If you are concerned about how much you are drinking you can talk your concerns through with your GP or family doctor, who can refer you to a specialist agency if needed.
If you do not have access to a doctor, then you can go along to one of the local alcohol agencies which can help assess your level of drinking and provide support to cut down or stop drinking. This support will be for as long as you need it, that could be a couple of 1:1 sessions, or groupwork, or more structured 1: 1 support. They are trained in helping people with DVA issues.
See directory at the bottom of this page for Services based in the Community addresses
Al-Anon:
If you have been affected by a family or friend’s alcohol use then a local Al-Anon group can help.
61 Great Dover Street, London SE1 4YF.
Tel: 020 7403 0888 (Helpline 10am - 10pm, 365 days a year).
http://www.al-anonuk.org.uk/
Email: enquiries@al-anonuk.org.uk
Young People
Opening Doors:
If you are under 18 years and would like support around your own or someone else’s alcohol or drugs use then you can contact the Opening Doors Early Intervention Service.
For young people living in North or East Central Bristol contact
BDP (Bristol Drugs Project) on 0117 9876008
For young people living in South Bristol contact
HAWKS (Hartcliffe and Withywood Kick Start) on 0117 9642859
http://www.openingdoorsbristol.org.uk/how-it-works
They can provide up to six 1:1 sessions, and can refer young people on to other services if needed.
Alateen:
For teenage relatives and friends of alcoholics: young people aged 12-17 years can meet to share experiences, gain an understanding of alcohol misuse, and feel the benefits of realising you are not being alone.
http://www.al-anonuk.org.uk/
Tel: 020 7407 0215 for a local group.
NACOA:
The National Association for Children of Alcoholics provides information, advice and support for children of alcoholics and people concerned for their welfare. They also have information around domestic abuse. They run a helpline:
PO Box 64, Fishponds, Bristol, BS16 2UH
Tel 924 8005
Helpline 0800 - 358 3456
http://www.nacoa.org.uk/