In recognition of Alcohol Awareness Week 2025, we spoke with James Barrie, Service Manager at Forward Leeds, the city’s alcohol and drug service, to learn more about how they help people find healthier ways to cope and support lasting change.
What kind of support does Forward Leeds offer for people struggling with alcohol?
“We have a range of different support options for people who might be struggling with their alcohol use,” James Barrie, Service Manager at Forward Leeds explains. “It’s important to note that if someone feels they need support, we will work with them. We’ve supported people who are drinking a bottle of vodka a day, and people who are drinking two beers a day.”
The process begins with a personal support plan. “We’ll encourage people to complete an alcohol diary to get an accurate picture of how much they are drinking. From there, we’ll work on a realistic reduction plan, whilst also exploring the reasons why the person is drinking.”
For individuals who are physically dependent on alcohol, the team prepares them for detox – either at home or in a medical unit.
Who uses Forward Leeds?
“We support people from a range of different ages and ethnic backgrounds. We recognise that drug and alcohol use can impact anyone, regardless of their circumstances.”
What happens when someone reaches out for help?
“First, we carry out an assessment. This can feel daunting, but it helps us get to know the person and understand what support they’re looking for,” says James. “The person is then allocated a recovery worker for one-to-one sessions to work on their goals.”
Reaching out is easier than many think: “People can refer over the phone, online, or even call into one of our three hubs in Leeds.”
What kind of challenges do people face alongside alcohol use?
The reasons people come to Forward Leeds are complex and varied.
“We see people who have experienced trauma, mental health issues, bereavement, loss of employment – or even just the challenges that come with getting older,” James shares. “Whatever issues people are going through, we support them every step of the way.”
Forward Leeds also connects clients with internal teams who support areas like mental health, housing, employment, and family support. They offer an aftercare service called 5 Ways, designed to help people maintain their progress after formal treatment ends.
Is alcohol often used as a way to cope with difficult emotions?
“A lot of people we see have experienced trauma or challenging life events. We help them find alternative ways to cope that work for them.”
How do broader societal issues – like cost of living or isolation – impact your work?
“These issues definitely play a role,” James notes. “Cost-of-living pressures can contribute to people drinking as a way to manage stress. Isolation is a massive issue too – we saw a big increase in alcohol use during the pandemic due to people being cut off from their support networks.”
The service is currently running a project to support people aged 60+ with alcohol issues, recognising that isolation and lack of social contact can be major contributing factors.
What needs to change in how we view alcohol use?
“I think there’s still a view that alcohol isn’t as dangerous as drugs, because it’s legal and widely available. Our culture is still heavily centred around alcohol,” James says. “But alcohol-free drinks and sober events are on the rise, which is fantastic to see.”
What’s happening for Alcohol Awareness Week?
“We’re hosting a series of face-to-face events around the city to promote Alcohol Awareness Week and share the work that Forward Leeds does… We’ll be at the Compton Centre in Harehills on 9 July, and more events will be shared on our social media channels.”
Follow them at @ForwardLeeds on Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) for updates.
What would you say to someone unsure about reaching out?
“We know that coming forward for support can be daunting. But we really encourage anyone to do so if they feel they need help. Some people benefit just from a chat or a bit of advice.”
People can call, go online, or drop into a local hub. “There’s also useful information and testimonials from people we’ve supported on our website.”
What change do you hope to see in someone’s life after support?
“Ultimately, we want people to achieve what they set out to do – whether that’s stopping alcohol completely or reducing to a safer, more controlled level. We want people to feel confident, happy and empowered.”
Final thoughts for someone reading this who might need help?
“Please reach out. Even just picking up the phone and having a chat with us can be the first, most important step.”
“And if you’re worried about a family member, get in touch – we’re here to talk through your concerns and offer advice.”
James Barrie, Service Manager at Forward Leeds
How to contact Forward Leeds
Call: 0113 887 2477
Visit: forwardleeds.co.uk
Drop-in: Hubs in Armley, Seacroft, and Kirkgate (City Centre)
Useful links