A Stoke-on-Trent service helping people overcome drug and alcohol challenges has celebrated its move to a new home in Hanley.

The Community Drug & Alcohol Service relocated from Hope Street to its new base at Whittle Court earlier this year to better serve the needs of local people.

Last Wednesday (8th October) the Lord Mayor, Cllr Steve Watkins, and Lady Mayoress, Cllr Lynn Watkins, joined the celebration at the new Whittle Court location, which is close to Central Forest Park.

CDAS is commissioned by Stoke-on-Trent City Council and delivered in partnership by WithYou and BAC O'Connor. It's hoped the move will mark a new chapter for drug and alcohol support in the city.

The Open Day highlighted the wide range of help available for anyone in the city affected by drugs or alcohol

Vicki Nash, Head of Service Delivery at CDAS, said: "Whittle Court has already made such a difference, giving us a home that is welcoming, accessible, and increasing our ability to respond to local need.

"Since launching our drop-in, we've seen more people than ever reaching out for help with drugs and alcohol.

"This open day has been a chance to show the strength of our community and the progress we've made.

"We're excited to build on that momentum as we look to the future."

The Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress joined group sessions and met with people with lived experience

Whittle Court has been designed as a safe, non-judgmental hub where anyone affected by drugs or alcohol can access free, confidential support built around their choices and circumstances.

The space has been developed with a trauma-informed approach - ensuring people feel safe, respected, and listened to from the moment they arrive.

Support services available include recovery groups and peer support, creative therapies and workshops, support for family and friends, specialist young people support and help with work, education, or housing

The new site will also host regular drop-in sessions for residents over 18 - without the need for a referral or to book an appointment. The sessions can be accessed Monday to Wednesday 9:30am- 2:30pm and 9:30am-12:30pm on Fridays.

Now fully settled in, an open day last week allowed members of the community to see how the base is providing accessible, welcoming support for anyone affected by drugs or alcohol.

Lord Mayor, Lady Mayoress and CDAS Head of Service Delivery Vicki Nash

The Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent cut a ribbon to mark the occasion before leading a round of applause for the staff, volunteers, and service users who bring CDAS to life.

Cllr Steve Watkins said: "It was a privilege to attend the CDAS open day at Whittle Court and learn more about the support that is available for residents struggling with drug and alcohol problems. Also, it was clear to see the strength of community that exists here, which is important for those who are in need of help and looking to change their lives."

Cllr Lynn Watkins, cabinet member for health integration and wellbeing at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: "It is vital that those who are beginning their path to recovery from drug and alcohol addiction can do this in a safe space and with the right support.

"These facilities at Whittle Court allow for service users to access what they need without judgement as we continue to help people to live healthier lives and reduce health inequality in the city.

"I encourage anybody struggling to reach out or attend a CDAS drop-in session and get the help you need."

Cllr Lynn Watkins: 'These facilities at Whittle Court allow for service users to access what they need without judgement'

Stoke-on-Trent Community Drug and Alcohol Service (CDAS) provides free, confidential support for adults, young people, and families affected by drugs or alcohol.

To find out more about the service or seek support click here.

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