New drug and alcohol support centre opens in Grangetown

The service, based in Grangetown, is part of WithYou in Redcar & Cleveland, a charity that operates from Redcar High Street and has now expanded to reach more people in need of confidential, non-judgemental help.

The centre is at Barbara Bowater House on Kingsley Road and is now fully operational.

Stacey Skilton, head of service delivery at WithYou in Redcar & Cleveland, said: “We’re excited to extend our support across the area.

“The additional centre in Grangetown will allow us to help more residents, at times and in places that suit them, and in a way that feels rooted in the community.

“By being visible in local areas, we’re making help support more approachable, and breaking down stigma.

“We want people to know that help is close by, free, and without judgement.”

The new site offers a wide range of support, including one-to-one sessions for adults and young people, naloxone distribution (which reverses opioid overdoses), group workshops, drop-ins, and space for partner organisations.

It is designed to be a warm and welcoming environment where people feel safe and respected.

WithYou is encouraging residents, professionals, and organisations to refer anyone who may need support, whether for advice, harm reduction, or to reduce or stop their use of drugs or alcohol.

Alongside therapeutic services, the centre also provides harm reduction equipment and information.

A free and confidential webchat service is also available through the charity’s website, staffed by trained advisors from 9am to 9pm on weekdays and from 10am to 4pm on weekends and bank holidays.

The service runs every day except Christmas Day and allows individuals to speak anonymously with a team member for advice and support.

WithYou works in partnership with THRIVE partners, Harbour, Intuitive Thinking Skills, and Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council.

THRIVE is the first integrated domestic abuse and substance use partnership in England.

It brings together specialist charities to address the complex, overlapping needs of individuals in the area.

A community launch event will take place at the centre on May 21 from 10am to 3pm.

Residents, professionals, and organisations are invited to attend to learn more about the service, meet the team, and discuss how the community can work together to support those in need.

The event is free to attend, but attendees are encouraged to register in advance via Eventbrite to help with planning.