Sometimes, the most important thing you can do is listen. 💬
In Tamsin's words, being listened to and having someone hear her pain made a difference.
Conversations can help people feel heard, understood and supported when they need it most.
Through The Big Addiction ing to inspire 17,000 conversations about addiction, helping to challenge stigma, break down barriers and remind people that they don't have to face addiction alone.
You never know how much a conversation could mean to someone.
💬 Need a starting point? Use our digital conversation generator for prompts to get the conversation going.
Start a conversation today: takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/digital-conver…
#BigAddictionConversation
In Tamsin's words, being listened to and having someone hear her pain made a difference.
Conversations can help people feel heard, understood and supported when they need it most.
Through The Big Addiction ing to inspire 17,000 conversations about addiction, helping to challenge stigma, break down barriers and remind people that they don't have to face addiction alone.
You never know how much a conversation could mean to someone.
💬 Need a starting point? Use our digital conversation generator for prompts to get the conversation going.
Start a conversation today: takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/digital-conver…
#BigAddictionConversation
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How does the language we use shape the way we see addiction?
The words we use don't just describe addiction. They shape how people experiencing it are seen, understood and treated.
Derogatory terms like "junkie", "druggie" or "alcy" are not only offensive, they're dehumanising. ma, affect public attitudes, and make it harder for people to take that first step towards getting support.
That's why Taking Action on Addiction exists: to challenge the way society talks about addiction and the people affected by it.
This year's campaign, The Big Addiction Conversation, aims to spark 17,000 conversations that help people have more honest, informed and supportive discussions about drug, alcohol and gambling-related harm.
It's time to move beyond sensationalist headlines and harmful stereotypes that judge, blame and divide.
Addiction can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, gender, ethnicity or postcode. With understanding, effective support and opportunities for recovery, people can and do rebuild their lives.
Every conversation matters. Recovery is more likely when people feel accepted, understood and supported by those around them.
💬 How can we change the way we talk about addiction?
Join The Big Addiction Conversation and help build a more understanding, supportive and stigma-free society.
#BigAddictionConversation
The words we use don't just describe addiction. They shape how people experiencing it are seen, understood and treated.
Derogatory terms like "junkie", "druggie" or "alcy" are not only offensive, they're dehumanising. ma, affect public attitudes, and make it harder for people to take that first step towards getting support.
That's why Taking Action on Addiction exists: to challenge the way society talks about addiction and the people affected by it.
This year's campaign, The Big Addiction Conversation, aims to spark 17,000 conversations that help people have more honest, informed and supportive discussions about drug, alcohol and gambling-related harm.
It's time to move beyond sensationalist headlines and harmful stereotypes that judge, blame and divide.
Addiction can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, gender, ethnicity or postcode. With understanding, effective support and opportunities for recovery, people can and do rebuild their lives.
Every conversation matters. Recovery is more likely when people feel accepted, understood and supported by those around them.
💬 How can we change the way we talk about addiction?
Join The Big Addiction Conversation and help build a more understanding, supportive and stigma-free society.
#BigAddictionConversation
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How much do you know about the impact of alcohol on our health? 🧠
Alcohol can contribute to more than 60 different medical conditions, including liver disease, certain cancers, cardiovascular disease and conditions affecting the central nervous system.
It’s a reminder that -related harm than we might think.
💬 Did you get the correct answer? Let us know in the comments!
Want to keep the conversation going? Test your knowledge and explore more questions using our digital card generator on our website.
takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/digital-conver…
#BigAddictionConversation
Alcohol can contribute to more than 60 different medical conditions, including liver disease, certain cancers, cardiovascular disease and conditions affecting the central nervous system.
It’s a reminder that -related harm than we might think.
💬 Did you get the correct answer? Let us know in the comments!
Want to keep the conversation going? Test your knowledge and explore more questions using our digital card generator on our website.
takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/digital-conver…
#BigAddictionConversation
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The recent @BBC documentary by Stacey Dooley has brought renewed attention to the rising harms associated with ketamine use in the UK and the growing impact it is having on young people and their families.
Ketamine use is a subject we've explored previously through Barney's d the devastating impact addiction can have, not only on those using the drug, but also on the families and loved ones around them. Tragically, in Barney's case, ketamine use led to his premature death at just 21 years-old.
Greater awareness and education are vital in helping people understand the long-term mental and physical health risks associated with ketamine use. Yet many people still find it difficult to talk openly about their substance use, worsening symptoms or the possibility that they may need help. Ketamine use can lead to serious and sometimes permanent health complications, including bladder damage.
That's why conversations about drug and alcohol use are more important than ever.
Through The Big Addiction Conversation, we're encouraging more open, honest discussions about addiction, recovery and support.
This year, we're aiming to help start 17,000 conversations about addiction. One conversation for every life lost to drug or alcohol-related causes each year.
Whether it's a family member, friend, colleague or someone who trusts you enough to open up, conversations can play an important role in helping people feel heard and seek support.
Our campaign hub includes practical advice, support resources and a Digital Conversation Generator to help people start those conversations.
🔗 Read Barney's Story and visit our Campaign Hub: takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/campaign
takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/news/barneys-s…
💬 Do you think awareness of ketamine addiction has changed in recent years? We'd love to hear your thoughts.
#BigAddictionConversation
Ketamine use is a subject we've explored previously through Barney's d the devastating impact addiction can have, not only on those using the drug, but also on the families and loved ones around them. Tragically, in Barney's case, ketamine use led to his premature death at just 21 years-old.
Greater awareness and education are vital in helping people understand the long-term mental and physical health risks associated with ketamine use. Yet many people still find it difficult to talk openly about their substance use, worsening symptoms or the possibility that they may need help. Ketamine use can lead to serious and sometimes permanent health complications, including bladder damage.
That's why conversations about drug and alcohol use are more important than ever.
Through The Big Addiction Conversation, we're encouraging more open, honest discussions about addiction, recovery and support.
This year, we're aiming to help start 17,000 conversations about addiction. One conversation for every life lost to drug or alcohol-related causes each year.
Whether it's a family member, friend, colleague or someone who trusts you enough to open up, conversations can play an important role in helping people feel heard and seek support.
Our campaign hub includes practical advice, support resources and a Digital Conversation Generator to help people start those conversations.
🔗 Read Barney's Story and visit our Campaign Hub: takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/campaign
takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/news/barneys-s…
💬 Do you think awareness of ketamine addiction has changed in recent years? We'd love to hear your thoughts.
#BigAddictionConversation
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Imagine someone you love was struggling with addiction. How would you want them to be treated?
With kindness? Without judgement? With support, understanding and the chance to get better?
Addiction can affect anyone, and the way we respond can make a real difference. But stigma make it harder for people to ask for help or feel understood.
Through The Big Addiction Conversation, we're encouraging people to challenge assumptions, listen to different experiences and talk more openly about addiction.
How would you want someone you love to be treated? Tell us in the comments. 👇
This card - and many others - are part of our Digital Conversation Generator card series.
Test your knowledge and reflect on your answers by visiting our Campaign Hub.
takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/digital-conver…
#BigAddictionConversation
With kindness? Without judgement? With support, understanding and the chance to get better?
Addiction can affect anyone, and the way we respond can make a real difference. But stigma make it harder for people to ask for help or feel understood.
Through The Big Addiction Conversation, we're encouraging people to challenge assumptions, listen to different experiences and talk more openly about addiction.
How would you want someone you love to be treated? Tell us in the comments. 👇
This card - and many others - are part of our Digital Conversation Generator card series.
Test your knowledge and reflect on your answers by visiting our Campaign Hub.
takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/digital-conver…
#BigAddictionConversation
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So many stories. So many conversations. One shared purpose.
More than 80 people came together at The Abbey Centre in Westminster to kick off The Big Addiction Conversation, an afternoon of connection, inspiration, laughter and powerful stories of recovery. 💙
From Nisha and ved experiences to a brilliant closing from Tony Adams MBE, Chair of The Forward Trust, the event was a reminder of the power of coming together, sharing our stories and listening to one another.
But this is only the beginning.
Through The Big Addiction Conversation, we want to spark 17,000 conversations about addiction over the next year, helping challenge stigma, break down misconceptions and make it easier for people to talk openly about addiction.
Every conversation counts. Every story matters.
Read more about the event: takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/news/the-big-a…
#BigAddictionConversation
More than 80 people came together at The Abbey Centre in Westminster to kick off The Big Addiction Conversation, an afternoon of connection, inspiration, laughter and powerful stories of recovery. 💙
From Nisha and ved experiences to a brilliant closing from Tony Adams MBE, Chair of The Forward Trust, the event was a reminder of the power of coming together, sharing our stories and listening to one another.
But this is only the beginning.
Through The Big Addiction Conversation, we want to spark 17,000 conversations about addiction over the next year, helping challenge stigma, break down misconceptions and make it easier for people to talk openly about addiction.
Every conversation counts. Every story matters.
Read more about the event: takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/news/the-big-a…
#BigAddictionConversation
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Did you know that just 1% of people accessing drug and alcohol treatment receive state-funded residential rehabilitation?
A new scheme, delivered through Open Houses, will allow health professionals and commissioners a chance to visit a number of residential services to see how n chat to teams, see the facilities, and learn more about why residential treatment might be the right option for some of their client groups.
As part of The Big Addiction Conversation, we're proud to say that The Forward Trust is taking part, opening its doors to The Bridges, Hull (9 Oct) and Clouds House, Wiltshire (16 Nov)
Start a conversation at your next Open House visit.
📍 Book an Open House near you: openhouses.org.uk/plan-your-visi…
#TheBigAddictionConversation #TakingActionOnAddiction
A new scheme, delivered through Open Houses, will allow health professionals and commissioners a chance to visit a number of residential services to see how n chat to teams, see the facilities, and learn more about why residential treatment might be the right option for some of their client groups.
As part of The Big Addiction Conversation, we're proud to say that The Forward Trust is taking part, opening its doors to The Bridges, Hull (9 Oct) and Clouds House, Wiltshire (16 Nov)
Start a conversation at your next Open House visit.
📍 Book an Open House near you: openhouses.org.uk/plan-your-visi…
#TheBigAddictionConversation #TakingActionOnAddiction
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Sober Comedy London brought people together for an afternoon of alcohol-free comedy, connection and conversation during Addiction Awareness Week.
For promoter Martyn Davies, who’s more than 8.5 years into recovery, conversations about addiction can be the first step towards s for him.
The Big Addiction Conversation continues all year, and there’s another chance to get involved! 💬
🎤 The London Alcohol-Free Comedy Club returns to Backyard Comedy Club, Bethnal Green, on Sunday 15 November at 3.30pm.
🎟️ Super Early Bird tickets are just £15. Learn more and book now: takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/news/the-big-a…
#BigAddictionConversation
For promoter Martyn Davies, who’s more than 8.5 years into recovery, conversations about addiction can be the first step towards s for him.
The Big Addiction Conversation continues all year, and there’s another chance to get involved! 💬
🎤 The London Alcohol-Free Comedy Club returns to Backyard Comedy Club, Bethnal Green, on Sunday 15 November at 3.30pm.
🎟️ Super Early Bird tickets are just £15. Learn more and book now: takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/news/the-big-a…
#BigAddictionConversation
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Why is addiction so misunderstood?
Addiction can affect anyone, yet many misconceptions still exist.
That's why we're encouraging more open conversations through The Big Addiction Conversation.
💬 What's one thing you wish more people understood about addiction?
Share your s below, then visit our Digital Conversation Generator for more conversation starters.
🔗 takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/digital-conver…
#BigAddictionConversation
Addiction can affect anyone, yet many misconceptions still exist.
That's why we're encouraging more open conversations through The Big Addiction Conversation.
💬 What's one thing you wish more people understood about addiction?
Share your s below, then visit our Digital Conversation Generator for more conversation starters.
🔗 takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/digital-conver…
#BigAddictionConversation
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17,000 conversations. That's our goal. 🎯
A simple ambition inspired by a powerful statistic: one conversation for every life lost.
Since launching The Big Addiction Conversation, people across the UK have already started sharing stories, challenging assumptions and talking tion.
Collective action is one of the most powerful ways to drive change, reduce stigma and make conversations about addiction a more normal part of everyday life.
Now we're inviting even more people, workplaces, organisations and communities to join the movement.
Here's how you can get involved 👇
💬 Start a conversation
📲 Try our Digital Conversation Cards
📦 Request a physical card pack
🧰 Download the campaign toolkit
Your voice matters. Every conversation counts. Help us reach 17,000.
🔗takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/campaign
#BigAddictionConversation
A simple ambition inspired by a powerful statistic: one conversation for every life lost.
Since launching The Big Addiction Conversation, people across the UK have already started sharing stories, challenging assumptions and talking tion.
Collective action is one of the most powerful ways to drive change, reduce stigma and make conversations about addiction a more normal part of everyday life.
Now we're inviting even more people, workplaces, organisations and communities to join the movement.
Here's how you can get involved 👇
💬 Start a conversation
📲 Try our Digital Conversation Cards
📦 Request a physical card pack
🧰 Download the campaign toolkit
Your voice matters. Every conversation counts. Help us reach 17,000.
🔗takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/campaign
#BigAddictionConversation
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Thank you to HRH The Princess of Wales, @KensingtonRoyal, for visiting one of our recovery projects this week.
As Royal Patron of @ForwardTrust and our Taking Action on Addiction campaign, we are incredibly grateful for her continued support of our work.
Here are a few photos dictionConversation
Photos by Andrew Parsons | Kensington Palace
As Royal Patron of @ForwardTrust and our Taking Action on Addiction campaign, we are incredibly grateful for her continued support of our work.
Here are a few photos dictionConversation
Photos by Andrew Parsons | Kensington Palace
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Taking Action on Addiction retweeted
Marking Addiction Awareness Week with The @ForwardTrust in Southend-on-Sea.
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Around 17,000 people die each year in the UK from alcohol- or drug-related causes.
This year, Taking Action on Addiction, a Forward Trust campaign, is aiming to start 17,000 conversations about addiction. One conversation for every life lost.
Start your conversation by:
🔁 n this post
🧰 Downloading our free conversation toolkit - takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/campaign-toolk…
📲 Trying our digital conversation cards - takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/digital-conver…
Every conversation counts, and every life lost to addiction matters.
Let's reverse the trend, together.
#TheBigAddictionConversation
This year, Taking Action on Addiction, a Forward Trust campaign, is aiming to start 17,000 conversations about addiction. One conversation for every life lost.
Start your conversation by:
🔁 n this post
🧰 Downloading our free conversation toolkit - takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/campaign-toolk…
📲 Trying our digital conversation cards - takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/digital-conver…
Every conversation counts, and every life lost to addiction matters.
Let's reverse the trend, together.
#TheBigAddictionConversation
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❓ How many adults in the UK are estimated to be addicted to alcohol?
💬 Cast your vote in our new poll, and share your thoughts in the comments.
#BigAddictionConversation
💬 Cast your vote in our new poll, and share your thoughts in the comments.
#BigAddictionConversation
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✅ Answer: B - 750,000
Sadly, it's estimated that around 750,000 adults in the UK are alcohol dependent. Thanks to everyone who took part in our poll. Were you surprised by the scale of the issue? Comment below 💬
#BigAddictionConversation
Sadly, it's estimated that around 750,000 adults in the UK are alcohol dependent. Thanks to everyone who took part in our poll. Were you surprised by the scale of the issue? Comment below 💬
#BigAddictionConversation
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We asked ChatGPT, as a widely used AI platform, to tell us in 30 words or less, how it thinks addiction can affect both the person experiencing it and the people around them.
Here’s what it had to say…🤖
But what do you think? Do you agree, disagree or have another Big Addiction Conversation and share your thoughts in the comments. 💬
#BigAddictionConversation
Here’s what it had to say…🤖
But what do you think? Do you agree, disagree or have another Big Addiction Conversation and share your thoughts in the comments. 💬
#BigAddictionConversation
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Want to take part in The Big Addiction Conversation?
Our free toolkit includes:
✅ Conversation tips
✅ Support information
✅ Practical guidance
✅ Fundraising ideas
✅ Ways to get involved
Register and download it today to start your conversation.
takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/campaign-toolk…
ion
Our free toolkit includes:
✅ Conversation tips
✅ Support information
✅ Practical guidance
✅ Fundraising ideas
✅ Ways to get involved
Register and download it today to start your conversation.
takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/campaign-toolk…
ion
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We asked ChatGPT, as a widely used AI platform, to tell us in 30 words or less, why it thinks addiction still carries so much stigma.
Here’s what it had to say…🤖
Do you agree?
Join the conversation and share your thoughts below.
#BigAddictionConversation
Here’s what it had to say…🤖
Do you agree?
Join the conversation and share your thoughts below.
#BigAddictionConversation
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This year's campaign theme is The Big Addiction Conversation.
We're aiming to start 17,000 conversations about addiction across the UK - and there's loads of ways to get involved.
You can start with our brand new Digital Conversation Generator.
Draw a card, start a here it takes you ⬇️
takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/digital-conver…
#BigAddictionConversation
We're aiming to start 17,000 conversations about addiction across the UK - and there's loads of ways to get involved.
You can start with our brand new Digital Conversation Generator.
Draw a card, start a here it takes you ⬇️
takingactiononaddiction.org.uk/digital-conver…
#BigAddictionConversation
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Every one of the 17,000 people who die from drug-and alcohol-related causes each year is far more than a statistic.
That's why we're launching The Big Addiction Conversation: a year-long mission to start 17,000 conversations about addiction across the UK.
That's why we're launching The Big Addiction Conversation: a year-long mission to start 17,000 conversations about addiction across the UK.
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We know these conversations aren't always easy. That's why we'll be sharing a range of free resources to help people start meaningful conversations about addiction, recovery and support.
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By encouraging more open and honest conversations, we hope more people will feel able to reflect on their drug or alcohol use, seek help when they need it, support a friend, family member or colleague, and know that recovery is possible.
Visit our campaign hub to get started ation Cards
🧰 Campaign Toolkit
🗣️ How to Speak to a Professional - a practical guide
Join the movement and help change how Britain talks about addiction.
🔗 takingactiononaddiction.org.uk
Visit our campaign hub to get started ation Cards
🧰 Campaign Toolkit
🗣️ How to Speak to a Professional - a practical guide
Join the movement and help change how Britain talks about addiction.
🔗 takingactiononaddiction.org.uk
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