what we do

We aim to reduce the harm caused by the unsafe use of alcohol.

our aims

  • We offer a confidential service to anyone over the age of 16, regardless of gender, race, religion or sexual orientation.
  • We aim to make our service easy to use and personalised to meet your needs.
  • We aim to agree a plan of action so that you know what to expect and what the next steps will be.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I access the service?

A telephone helpline is available Monday - Friday, 9am - 4pm. Our Duty Officer will arrange new appointments, answer general enquiries, and offer advice to staff from other agencies or patients needing support.

DO YOU SEE PEOPLE IN DOCTOR'S SURGERIES?

Yes. Each GP Practice in Manchester has a named Alcohol Linkworker (Alcohol Linkworker is the title used by our staff team). Weekly or fortnightly clinics are held at either GP surgeries or health centres.

What if I don't want to be seen at my doctor's?

We also see people in nearby health centres so let us know your preference when you ring to make your first appointment.

Do you see people at home?

Yes. We can see people at home if they are unable to get to an appointment in special situations. For example, when a parent is struggling with childcare or when someone is unable to leave the house because of ill health.

How long is an appointment session? How many sessions do I have?

Appointments are approximately half an hour. They are held on a one to one basis and are usually limited to 6-8 sessions.

What happens in the sessions?

At your first appointment, we carry out a detailed assessment. We look current drinking patterns, drinking history, future goals if known. We also look at your overall health and well-being and social circumstances.

Will I be told what to do?

No. We aim to support people develop their own personal goals about their drinking or non-drinking habits. It has to be your choice what to do next. We will use a variety of skills to offer support and advice including sharing facts and information, motivational counselling, ideas that have worked for other people, cognitive behavioural therapy and relapse prevention.

WHAT IF I FEEL UNWELL WHEN I TRY TO STOP OR CUT DOWN?

We assess people for alcohol detoxification and consider their physical and mental health, social circumstances, previous withdrawal experiences and readiness to change. Where appropriate, we offer a supervised home detoxification service.

Do you see people who are worried about someone else's drinking?

Yes. We provide advice, support and signposting for people affected by someone else's drinking.