NHS Inform is Scotland’s national health information service, providing trusted resources and support for individuals, families, and friends affected by alcohol misuse across Scotland. They offer free, confidential guidance to help families navigate the emotional, practical, and health-related challenges of a loved one’s drinking.
Drinkline Scotland provides advice, emotional support, and information for those concerned about a loved one’s alcohol use. Trained advisors offer guidance on understanding alcoholism, managing its impact, and accessing local services, whether the individual is actively drinking or in recovery.
The NHS Inform website offers extensive resources, including guides on recognizing alcohol dependency, health risks (e.g., liver disease, mental health issues), and coping strategies for families. Tools like the Alcohol Unit Calculator help families assess a loved one’s drinking habits, while advice on low-risk drinking (no more than 14 units weekly) and pregnancy-related risks supports informed decision-making.
NHS Inform connects families to local services through Scotland’s Alcohol and Drug Partnerships (ADPs), offering access to counseling, peer support groups, and community recovery programs in areas like Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen. These services help families share experiences, reduce isolation, and learn practical coping strategies. The site also signposts to partners like Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs (SFAD) for family-specific support.
Their approach is evidence-based, accessible, and non-judgmental, empowering families to support their loved one’s recovery or harm reduction journey. For more information, contact Drinkline Scotland, use the NHS Inform website contact form, or reach out to SFAD (08080 10 10 11, helpline@sfad.org.uk) for family support referrals.
