For anyone, in any part of the UK · Adults 18+
How to get help for drink or drugs in the UK.
You don't need the right words or a crisis to ask. Here's where to start, in plain terms.
The quickest first step: a phone call
You can call just to ask a question. You don't have to be ready to stop.
- EnglandDrinkline 0300 123 1110, weekdays 9am to 8pm, weekends 11am to 4pm.
- ScotlandDrinkline Scotland 0800 7314 314. For drugs, Know the Score 0800 587 5879.
- WalesDAN 24/7 0808 808 2234, day or night, for drink and drugs.
- Anywhere in the UK, for drugsFRANK 0300 123 6600, 24 hours a day, or text 82111.
Through your GP
The NHS calls a GP a good first contact. They can talk through your situation and help you into treatment, usually by referring you to your local service.
Without a GP
If you'd rather not see a GP, you can contact your local drug treatment service directly.
- EnglandFRANK's support finder
- ScotlandScotland's Service Directory
- WalesDAN 24/7
- Northern IrelandDrugs and Alcohol NI
- Online chatWith You offers live chat about drugs, alcohol and mental health.
What the first appointment is like
At a drug service, the NHS says staff will ask about your drug use, as well as your work, family and housing. You may be asked for a urine or saliva sample. They'll then agree a treatment plan with you, and you'll usually have a keyworker to support you through it.
What it costs
Charities and the NHS provide most drug treatment. You'd only pay if you chose a private organisation.
Before you stop drinking
If you may be dependent on alcohol, read this first. Stopping suddenly can be dangerous.
Support from people who've been there
Meetings are free, and you can usually just turn up or join online. Alcoholics Anonymous (0800 917 7650), Narcotics Anonymous (0300 999 1212) and SMART Recovery all run them. Different things suit different people.
Worried about someone else?
See how to talk to them, and helplines for families.
Where the facts come from
Service details checked against these pages on 4 November 2026. Tell us if something has changed.
Keep this on your phone
Quiet Strength Recovery and Quiet Sisters Recovery keep these numbers on your phone, one tap away. They're free, with no account.
If you need help now
From Chris Nugent, Quiet Strength Recovery. This comes from lived experience of addiction and recovery. How these guides are checked.
For adults 18+. Peer support and education from lived experience. Not medical treatment, and not a replacement for professional or emergency help. Outside the UK, use your local emergency number.