Drug and alcohol support

Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism.

The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for AA membership; we are self-supporting through our own contributions.

AA is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organisation or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy; neither endorses nor opposes any causes. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.

Click here to visit the Alcoholics Anonymous website.

Addaction

Addaction is one of the UK’s leading mental health, drug and alcohol charities. They work with adults and young people, in community settings, in prisons, in residential rehab and through outreach. In 2017 they supported 140,000 people.

Addaction believes that everyone can change and supports them to do it.

Their services include Mental Health, Alcohol & drugs, Young persons, Friends & Family.

Click here to visit the Addaction website.

SaS

The service is for young people in North Somerset who would like support, information or advice about drugs and alcohol.  

They also help young people who are using drugs, alcohol or tobacco and want support and help to stop their use.

They can meet with young people wherever they feel more comfortable.  This may be at home, in the community, at school or college or within their building.

The service’s work includes visiting schools and youth centres to provide education and information to groups of young people about drugs, alcohol and tobacco.

They are also able to provide support and training to parents, carers and professionals.

A young person can refer themselves by calling the service’s telephone number or, with the young person’s permission, a referral can be made by a parent, carer or professional.  There is no waiting list and there is no charge for the service.

Click here to visit SaS website.

Improved Access

We are working together with other local practices to offer patients access to more appointments in the early mornings, evenings and at weekends. To find out more about these services, please contact the practice.

ARA

ARA is  a registered charity formed in 1987 by an enthusiastic group of volunteers. It is estimated that ARA has helped over 40,000 people with alcohol, drug, gambling and mental health issues and has saved an estimated £50 million in costs to the community.

Over many years ARA has provided structured treatment, counselling, housing support, education, training and employment guidance as well as many other interventions to promote recovery and a healthier life.

Click here to visit the ARA website.

Group A Streptococcus - Information for families and carers of children

You may have seen reports about a higher-than-usual level of Group A streptococcus (GAS) infections in children this year, and we understand if you are concerned.

GAS is a common bacteria – lots of people carry it without being unwell.

It can cause many common mild infections, including sore throats or scarlet fever, which can be easily treated with antibiotics. 

The information below explains how it is spread, and what to look for when your child is unwell.

How is it spread?

GAS spreads by close contact with an infected person. It can be passed on through coughs and sneezes, or from a wound.

Which infections does GAS cause?

The bacteria usually causes a mild infection, producing sore throats or scarlet fever, which can be easily treated with antibiotics.

What is invasive group A strep?

This is when the bacteria gets into the bloodstream and causes serious illness – called invasive Group A strep (iGAS). These cases are very rare.

Symptoms of mild GAS infections

Symptoms of mild infections include: sore throat; fever; chills; muscle aches; and in cases of scarlet fever, a rash and a white coating on the tongue, which peels leaving the tongue red, swollen and covered in bumps

When to contact us:

– If your child is not recovering after a bout of scarlet fever, a sore throat, or a respiratory infection, and you are concerned they are becoming more unwell

– If your child is drinking much less (50% less) than normal

– If your child has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more, or shows other signs of dehydration

– If your baby is under three months and has a temperature of 38C, or is three to six months old and has a temperature of 39C or higher

– If your child is very tired or irritable

Call 999 or go to A&E if:

– Your child is having difficulty breathing – you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs

– There are pauses when your child breathes

– Your child’s tongue or lips are blue, or their skin is mottled/pale

– Your child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake

– Your child has a weak, continuous, or high-pitched cry