The Bradford service helps thousands of people struggling with drug and alcohol problems

A BRADFORD service has helped thousands of people struggling with alcohol and other drug problems in its first year.

New Vision – which offers free, confidential and non-judgmental support for anyone living in the borough – began operating in April 2023.

About 3,500 people receive formal treatment and over 350 people have successfully left the service with their goals achieved, which for most means living a life without alcohol or drugs.

Staff and volunteers work with each person, providing structured individual and group support, clinical interventions and advice for families.

45 volunteers have been trained to provide this crucial support over the past year and have collectively given 9529 hours of their time.

New Vision began operations in April last year (Image: Newsquest)

“It gave me the confidence to do things I would never have done”

One service user said: “Since going to New Vision Bradford my life has changed for the better.

“I have friends now that I can call if I’m struggling and they know they can call me if they’re struggling.

“New Vision Bradford has given me the confidence to do things I would never have done in the past.

“Now I can go to a meal or a meeting with my friends and I’m happy to have a soft drink. Something I thought I would never be able to say.”

Over 350 people have successfully left the service with their goals achieved (Image: Newsquest)The service is made up of a partnership of organisations, including Bridge Project, Project 6 and Create Strength Group – led by charity Humankind.

It works in an integrated way with people to support access to safe and secure housing, jobs and a rough bedroom team.

Becky Norton, Deputy Director for New Vision Bradford, said: “I feel very proud of the service, all our partners and the hard work the team has put in over the last year.

“It’s been fantastic to remember the number of people we’ve supported and all the events and initiatives we’ve been involved in.”

Around 3,500 people receive formal treatment from the service for drug and alcohol problems (Image: Canva)

‘This is just the beginning’

Bradford Council Acting Commissioning Manager (Public Health) Joe Kean added: “The first year for the service has been a very positive basis for our plans to support Bradford and Airedale residents with alcohol and drug needs.

“We have fixed a drop in treatment and are supporting around 3,500 people in formal treatment and many more with different needs.

“However, the first year is just the beginning; in the current climate of the seemingly ever-rising cost of living, many people are struggling and we are committed with our partners to providing a service that the district deserves and we are confident that this is reflected in the investment plans for this new financial year with the provision of more resources and innovative areas of work.”

For advice, help or support contact 01274 296023 or visit https://newvisionbradford.org.uk