The local charity, Developing Health & Independence (DHI) will host its 18th annual Reach Out Conference at Somerdale Pavilion, Keynsham, during Carers Week, on June 12 (1.30-4.30 pm), to shine a light on the often-overlooked needs of people caring for someone with a drug or alcohol problem.
To register for this free event, visit this link: Sign up now!
Or email your intention to attend to: events@dhibath.org.uk
Rosie Phillips, Chief Executive of DHI, said:
“Sadly, there remains a huge stigma not only for those struggling with a drug or alcohol problem, but also for their families and carers. Too many suffer in silence. Problematic drug or alcohol use—often a response to emotional pain or mental health difficulties—is far more common than people realise.
“We hold this conference each year to support those impacted by a loved one’s drug or alcohol use. The isolation carers experience carries a great personal toll and has wider social costs, such as increased ill health and workplace absences. We also know that people in treatment have better outcomes when their families and carers are supported and informed—something our Families Also Matter service has been doing for 20 years. This year, we’re proud to mark both the 20th anniversary of our work with families and carers, and the 18th Reach Out Conference.”
One of the key speakers at this free event, Kate Newlands, said, “DHI’s Family Liaison meant the difference for me in not forever hiding under the duvet in shame but being able to face the world and lead my own life. “
Jenny Raynes, from the support group Bereavement Through Addiction (BTA), shared her story:
“My 28-year-old daughter, Anna, died of an overdose in May 2018, devastating our family. Anna was a mother to two young children. We had to find a way to cope after years of trauma, stigma, shame, and emotional pain.
“It’s almost impossible to express the value of the monthly bereavement group. The support I’ve received from others who’ve faced similar losses has been life-changing. That shared understanding of guilt, grief, and loneliness has helped me survive some of the darkest times.”
Kate and one of the founders of BTA are key speakers at the event. In sharing their story, they help others break the silence.
The conference is free thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, Marlin Communications. Chief Executive, Martin Buckland, said: “This will be our sixth year of supporting Developing Health & Independence as our nominated charity. I am deeply proud to continue our long-term commitment with a £2,000 donation towards the DHI 2025 Reach Out conference, celebrating their vital work in transforming the lives of those in our community who are facing homelessness or dealing with substance misuse – a cause that resonates profoundly with me personally.”
The event will include:
Q&A session … and more
Kate Newlands – A personal account from a mother of supporting a child with a substance use problem
Bereavement Through Addiction – A founding member speaks about the importance of peer support and healing after loss
Musical Melodies: Love Shine a Light Workshop
For your information:
- Developing Health & Independence (DHI) is a West of England charity that supports people facing social exclusion, including those affected by homelessness, substance use, or emotional distress. www.dhi-online.org.uk
- DHI provides online support and face-to-face services for families and carers in South Gloucestershire. Since 2024, DHI has hosted Bereavement Through Addiction, a peer-led support group meeting monthly in Bath and open to anyone across the West of England.
https://www.dhi-online.org.uk/get-help/families-carers-services
- Bereavement Through Addiction is a South West-based peer support group for those who have experienced a loss due to drugs or alcohol: www.bereavementthroughaddiction.com
