Support lines
If you are concerned that you or someone you care about has a problem, there are people you can talk to. You can find some useful phone numbers and links here for free and confidential advice.
Drinkchat
Free online chat service for anyone who is looking for information or advice about their own, or someone else’s, drinking. Our trained advisors are on hand to give you confidential advice. Drinkchat is available from 9am-2pm on weekdays.
Drinkline
Free, confidential helpline for anyone who is concerned about their drinking, or someone else's.
Helpline: 0300 123 1110 (weekdays 9am–8pm, weekends 11am–4pm)
If you are in Scotland, you can also contact Drinkline Scotland on 0800 7314 314.
We Are With You (formerly Addaction)
UK-wide treatment agency, helping individuals, families and communities to manage the effects of drug and alcohol misuse. If you are over 50 and have concerns about your drinking, you can also call the helpline.
Helpline: 0808 801 0750
Visit the We Are With You website
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Great Britain
AA supports the recovery and continued sobriety of individuals. Meetings are available online and in person.
Helpline: 0800 917 7650
Email helpline: help@aamail.org
Visit the Alcoholics Anonymous website
Al-Anon
Al-Anon in the UK and Republic of Ireland offers support to families and friends affected by someone else’s drinking.
Helpline: 0800 008 6811
ADFAM
Information, advice and local support services for families affected by alcohol and drugs. Please note ADFAM do not operate a helpline but general queries can be made on 07442 137 421 or 07552 986 887.
National Association for Children of Alcoholics (NACOA)
Information, advice and support for children of alcohol-dependent parents and anyone concerned with the welfare of a child.
Helpline: 0800 358 3456
Email helpline: helpline@nacoa.org.uk
Visit the National Association for Children of Alcoholics website
FRANK
Confidential information, advice and support for anyone concerned about alcohol and illegal drugs.
Helpline: 0300 123 6600 (24hrs a day, 7 days a week)
Samaritans
Confidential non-judgmental emotional support, 24 hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress, despair or suicide.
Helpline: 116 123 (24hrs a day, 7 days a week)
Email helpline: jo@samaritans.org (they try their hardest to get back to your email within 24 hours)
Mind
Information and advice about mental health and support services.
Helpline: 0300 123 3393
SFAD
Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs (SFAD) is a national charity that supports anyone concerned about someone else’s alcohol or drug use in Scotland. The helpline is open from 9am-11pm on weekdays with a call-back service on weekends
Helpline: 08080 10 10 11
DAN
DAN is a free and confidential bilingual helpline for anyone seeking alcohol and drug support in Wales. It operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Helpline: 0808 808 2234