January 2012

Scarborough and Ryedale Carers Resource : “Worried About Someone misusing Drugs or Alcohol?”  

Plans are now being made to expand a local project offering support to unpaid carers living in Ryedale. 

Two local charities - Scarborough and Ryedale Carers Resource (SRCR) and the Cambridge Centre (CC) – are working in partnership to provide information, advice and emotional support to local people worried about a family member or a friend who is misusing drugs or alcohol. This could be someone who has become addicted to their prescription drugs and their medication....

We realise that most services focus on the person taking drugs or misusing alcohol, but there is little support for the people who are trying to keep them safe and offering behind-the-scene support. Parents, partners, children or friends may be struggling to cope with the day-to- day responsibility and stress of ‘keeping an eye on’ someone they care for; unsure of where or how to get help or what is available.

Sally Craggs, Support and Information Officer at SRCR offers one-to-one support to individuals by telephone, email or home visits; while Steve Ripley (CC) and Julie Graves (SRCR) are organising drop-in sessions, meetings and information events.

In 2012, Julie Graves and Steve Ripley are asking Ryedale people what would be useful in this area? If you are caring for someone involved with drugs or alcohol you are invited to voice your needs about what would help you to cope – information sessions, talks, group meetings or drop-in sessions ...... all suggestions are welcome. 

On Monday 13th February we are having an informal meeting with local carers at a Malton venue. If you would like to influence how the project develops in Ryedale, or you would like to meet other people facing similar situations please join us.

To find out more contact Julie Graves or Sally Craggs on 01723 850155 or email Julie@carersresource.net  

For advice and information support workers and agencies in Ryedale, if you come across someone who you feel would benefit from contact with Sally Craggs regarding care of someone using drugs or alcohol please make a referral by phone, email or fax 01723 850797.

Scarborough and Ryedale Carers Resource, 96 High St, Snainton, North Yorkshire, YO13 9AJ