Virtual support groups
Virtual support groups available to families
It is important that families affected by someone else’s drug, alcohol or gambling problem receive the support they need and deserve. Whilst our family support map lists services that support families in different areas of the country, during COVID-19 many groups and services are not currently able to meet face-to-face.
Some organisations are now offering virtual support to families instead, including virtual support groups and online web chat services, which we have listed below:
Virtual support groups
Virtual support group for families affected by their loved one’s use of addictive substances and activities (10.00-11.30am on Mondays & 7.00 – 8.30pm on Wednesdays)
Virtual support group for families (7.00 - 9.00pm on Thursdays) and virtual 1:1s (available Monday - Friday between 9am - 4pm)
Families Anonymous run groups for families and friends of those with a drug problem. Some of these groups are now running virtually, call their helpline on 0207 498 4680 for more information (calls are answered daily 1-4pm and 6-9pm)
Family & Friends Meetings are available on Monday evenings 7.30 pm – 9.00 pm
Online webchat
Free and confidential web chat for friends and family members.
Online chat service that is open every weekday, from 1.30pm to 5.30pm, to talk about any family or parenting issue.
New online chat service, Reach Out, providing friendly help and advice to people affected by drug and alcohol issues, including loved ones and family members, available between 9am and 3pm Monday-Friday (excluding Bank Holidays).
Online chatroom to talk about issues related to problem gambling with other people in similar situations. Family & Friends chatroom every Thursday at 9.30pm.
Free and confidential online chat service available: weekdays - between 10am-4pm and 6pm-9pm; and on weekends: 11am-4pm.
Families can also speak with other families anonymously via Adfam's online peer support forum.
If you know of any other virtual support group/web chat service that isn't listed on this page please get in touch with us at admin@adfam.org.uk.
The support options listed above are delivered by partner organisations that are independent from Adfam.