From the website of the registered charity Spinney Hill Drugs, Alcohol and Addiction Support based in Leicester
Unfortunately, drug use has been common within our communities for many years, However, in recent times there has been a difference in the types of drugs being consumed. Whereas, historically, individuals consumed ‘soft’ drugs like Cannabis, more recently Class A drugs such as Cocaine and Heroin have become more common.
We noticed that many of those who started taking drugs/alcohol recreationally were, over time, going on to become addicted to these substances. And once addiction takes hold, lives can unravel very quickly. Addicts can find it increasingly difficult to maintain jobs, manage their finances, sustain relationships and stay out of the criminal justice system.
Recognising this, some addicts have reached out for help. However they found the existing support on offer, via commissioned drug support agencies, was not always able to meet their needs, and so they would often retreat back into their drug use, leading to a further spiral of depression, petty crime and, in some cases, suicide.
This led us on a journey to establish a confidential, community based, culturally sensitive, Drugs and Alcohol support service and hence Spinney Hill was born.