Addiction support charity for Westbury families

WESTBURY families affected by addiction can get support from a charity offering one-to-one counselling, group meetings and bereavement support.

Families Out Loud (FOL) covers west Wiltshire and offers online and face-to-face contact for its ever-expanding client base.

Debra Hawley, trustee and secretary said, “FOL is governed by a board of trustees, all of whom have some experience of addiction within their own family network. Our professional counsellors, who understand the complexities of drug and alcohol abuse, are exceptionally well placed to support family members.”

Debra described the counselling and bereavement support services offered by FOL saying, “Addiction devastates lives and families. If someone you care about is abusing drugs or alcohol, your life is affected at every level. Having the opportunity to talk to a counsellor, or to peers in a support group setting, can be a lifeline for those going through trauma and distress. We offer a safe environment where you can talk, listen, give or get advice, covering topics such as setting boundaries, detaching from chaotic behaviours, supporting without enabling and looking after your own wellbeing.

“Loss is a natural part of life. The death of someone close takes us on a painful but unique journey towards a place where we hope to find peace and acceptance. In our work with families of people who have drug and alcohol addiction issues, the death of a loved one is a familiar concern. Sadly for some, this concern becomes a reality. The counsellors at Families Out Loud are trained to offer support to people in this situation.”

To get in touch with FOL or to sign up for the newsletter go to: www.familiesoutloud.org

The charity also sells handmade, locally crafted goods to raise funds for the cause. Debra said, “We were excited to make our first ever craft market appearance at Melksham Makers’ Market on 29th May. Selling a range of locally crafted handmade goods, such as bags, face masks, kitchen accessories and greetings cards, we had a great day raising money for our cause. 

Our stuff can also be found at www.ebay. co.uk/ str/familiesoutloudcharity shop or www.facebook. com/ adultsupportgroup/shop/?   referral_code=page_shop_ tab&preview=1&ref=page”