We support women who suffer from drug and alcohol abuse.
Stepping Stones was started when our founder realised there was a gap in Luton for specialist provision for women that misuse drugs and alcohol and for those that needed help with childcare when getting support. Although we have grown and diversified since this point, we continue to support women around drugs and alcohol misuse. We know that often women turn to substances as a way of coping with their circumstances or dealing with past trauma.
Often substance misuse can be linked to domestic abuse. In fact women who are victims of domestic abuse are at increased risk of substance misuse.
We understand that
- Alcohol and drugs affect women differently to men. We know that women can self medicate with substances to deal with things like family pressure or past experiences.
- Women use alcohol and drugs differently to men – for example it can take smaller amounts and less use for women to become addicted.
- Women can respond differently to substances – for example they may have more cravings and may be more likely to relapse. Women may also experience difference emotions linked to their substance misuse like shame or guilt.
We work closely with Resolutions who deliver drug and alcohol services in Luton, including seeing female clients from our premises. For more information about their specific services please visit: http://www.resolutions4luton.org/
So what is a healthy relationship with alcohol?
The government recommends that women drink no more than 14 units of alcohol a week spread out over 3 / 4 days.
If you’re pregnant, it is advisable not to drink at all as alcohol can lead to long term harm to your baby.
Not sure if you’re drinking too much?
Drink Aware have an assessment tool – which can be found here
Think you might want to change your drug misuse?
Try this self assessment – DAST
We want to help women make healthy choices about their substance misuse and give them the skills and tools to make changes.
We will talk to you about what you want to achieve and help you make those changes safely.