The Big Addiction Conversation – changing the way Britain talks about addiction

Addiction affects millions of people in the UK – those living with it, their friends and families, and communities.

But because of the stigma surrounding addiction, many people don’t seek the help they need.

The Big Addiction Conversation aims to change that, by using the power of conversation to combat stigma, and build understanding and empathy for people affected by addiction.

Mike Trace, CEO of The Forward Trust, said: “The Big Addiction Conversation is a national invitation to talk about addiction and in doing so, change the way we talk about it in the UK, just like the way we talk about mental health has changed.

“We know how powerful a single conversation can be in the lives of people struggling with addiction – it can be the moment that changes everything for them. It can break down stigma, show them they are understood, and inspire them to get the help they need to start a journey towards recovery.

“So what if, instead of a few conversations about addiction, there were thousands?

“Every year in the UK, 17,000 people die early and preventable deaths from drug and alcohol-related causes – roughly ten times the number of people killed in road traffic accidents each year in the UK.

“We’re aiming for The Big Addiction Conversation to start 17,000 conversations this year – one for every person who has lost their life too soon – so we can improve the situation for those who are struggling with addiction and help them feel safe, supported, and able to seek the help they need.”

Find support

If you are looking for help for yourself or someone you care about, visit our ‘Talk To Us’ page or browse our full List of Services.

Get involved

Visit the Taking Action on Addiction website for details about how you can get involved.

Use the hashtag #BigAddictionConversation and tag The Forward Trust and Taking Action on Addiction channels to support our campaign on social media.

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