Christmas can be a difficult time for many families affected by substance use. It’s important family members take steps to protect and look after themselves and their wellbeing, for more information take a look at Adfam’s Tips for Coping at Christmas: https://adfam.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tips-For-Coping-At-Christmas.pdf.
If you need help or support during the Christmas period, please find details below for support helplines that are available:
- Addiction Family Support – for families affected by drugs, alcohol and gambling. Call 0300 888 3853. See here for Christmas opening hours.
- Nacoa – advice for those affected by a parent’s drinking. Call 0800 358 3456. See here for Christmas opening hours.
- Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs – for families affected by drugs and alcohol in Scotland. Call 08080 10 10 11. See here for Christmas opening hours.
- Samaritans – 116 123 – if you need to speak to someone about what you are going through. Available 24 hours every day
- Call NHS 111 for immediate medical help
- Call 999 in an emergency or if you are at risk
- Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) 0800 58 58 58 (daily, 5pm to midnight)
- If you don’t want to speak over the phone you can Text SHOUT to 85258 or visit Shout