When someone is experiencing difficulties with alcohol or substance use, the impact is often felt far beyond the individual. Family members, partners and loved ones can find themselves carrying a heavy emotional burden, trying to offer support while coping with worry, uncertainty and isolation.

To help address this need, Simon Community is launching a new Family Support Group in Bangor, providing a safe and supportive space for people affected by a loved one’s alcohol or substance use.

The five-week programme, starting on Monday 12th October and held at Rathgill Community Association, has been developed in response to the experiences of families who told us that support is often focused on the person experiencing addiction, while the needs of those around them can go unrecognised.

Helen Wallace, Low Threshold Drugs & Alcohol Outreach Worker at Simon Community, said:

“More often than not, family members blame themselves. They wonder whether they caused the problem or whether they could have done something differently.”

The group will provide practical information, peer support and opportunities to connect with others who understand the challenges of supporting someone experiencing addiction.

Participants will explore topics including:

• Understanding addiction and recovery
• Healthy boundaries
• Communication and relationships
• Looking after your own wellbeing
• Building confidence and resilience

Importantly, the group is not about placing responsibility for someone’s recovery on their family members.

Helen explains.

“Caring for someone does not mean losing yourself,”

The initiative has also been shaped by lived experience, recognising that many families can feel alone in what they are going through.

“Families can feel judged by others or feel that friends and family don’t truly understand their worries and stresses. That can become very lonely.”

Whether you are seeking information, support or simply a space to listen and learn, the group offers a welcoming environment with no expectation to share before you feel ready.

If someone you care about is experiencing difficulties with alcohol or substance use, and you would like to learn more about the support available, we would encourage you to register your interest today.

You don’t need to have everything figured out before reaching out. Sometimes the first step is simply knowing that support is available for you too.