Alcohol, drugs and addiction

If you are struggling with an addiction there is lots of information and support available for young people. If you are worried about something you can contact your GP, for more urgent advice contact 111.

Health for Teens has a wide range of health and lifestyle information for young people including:

• Smoking/e-cigarettes
• Alcohol
• Drugs
• gambling

With more young people starting to vape it is important to understand that although vaping is better for you than smoking, it does not come without its risks. The long-term effects are still unknown.

Vaping should only be used to help tobacco smokers to quit smoking. If you do not smoke it is always healthier not to start vaping.

The Buckinghamshire Children and Young People’s Drug and Alcohol Support Service provides support for children, young people and young adults who are affected by drug or alcohol use, either their own or someone else's.

The service is available to:

• children and young people under 18
• young adults aged 18 to 24

The service offers:

• one-to-one support tailored to individual needs
• psychosocial interventions
• screening
• harm reduction advice
• family-focused work
• education-based prevention
• specialist support for children affected by a parent or carer’s substance use

Young people can receive support in:

• schools and colleges
• community settings
• other safe and appropriate locations chosen with the young person

The service provides training for professionals on drug and alcohol use and its impact on children and young people.

The service is free, confidential and non-judgemental, with age-appropriate support tailored to individual needs.

The service provides training for professionals on drug and alcohol use and its impact on children and young people.

• Telephone: 01494 527000
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: Bucks Youth Drug and Alcohol Support Service
• Referral form: online referral form

Young Minds has created a guide for young people about drugs and alcohol. They include information about:

• The laws around drugs and alcohol
• How to tell if you have a problem with drugs or alcohol
• Supporting a friend with a problem
• Further places to get help

GamCare 'Big Deal' can help young people find information and support about gambling. If you are worried about your gambling you can contact them by phone or live chat.