Steelworks backs drive to break addiction 'taboo'

A woman smiling at the camera. She has blonde hair and glasses. She's standing in front of a wall painted yellow. Posters, slogans and a blue mosaic are attached to the wall.

Sophie Knight, from WithYou, hopes more people will talk openly about addiction

Grace McGrory
in Scunthorpe

A drive to break the "taboo" around talking about addiction is being backed by one of Lincolnshire's biggest employers.

WithYou, a drug and alcohol charity, has joined forces with British Steel to deliver training to staff at the firm in Scunthorpe.

Sophie Knight, community engagement co-ordinator at the charity, which has a centre in the town, said: "People often struggle to come and ask for help. We want to break that down.

"We want to make sure people have the best support and can engage in treatment before it escalates."

According to WithYou, it provides a confidential, non-judgemental service to adults and young people experiencing issues with drugs, alcohol or mental health.

The charity said the education delivered at British Steel would highlight how crucial early intervention in the workplace could be and signpost support for people who might need it.

A man and four women stand in a line and smile as they look at the camera. They are in a room with laminate flooring and pale brown walls. Information boards are attached to the walls. On the far left, a man has cropped grey hair and a goatee beard and wears a brown and cream polo shirt. Next to him stands a woman with brown hair who wears glasses, a green polka-dot top and black jeans. In the centre of the line stands a woman with blonde hair, tied back, who wears a long light-green top over black leggings. Next to her stands a taller woman with blonde hair, tied back, who wears glasses, a long red and black patterned dress and a blue lanyard with white identity pass. On the far right stands a younger woman with blonde hair who wears a black fleece top and long black skirt. WithYou

The sessions are being delivered by support workers

Ms Knight said British Steel was a "massive part of our community" and everyone in Scunthorpe knew someone who worked there.

"I'm hoping that this is going to break down the stigma. I'm hoping that this is going to get people talking about substances, addiction and how it's not taboo," she added.

"Addiction doesn't discriminate, it can impact anyone."

The training has been delivered by WithYou and a partner agency, Scunthorpe Recovery Service, where some support workers have personally struggled with addiction.

Ms Knight added: "We're putting lived experience at the forefront. We think it's invaluable."

Martin Welch, occupational health manager at British Steel, said: "We really value the support from the team ensuring a joined-up approach for the care of our colleagues requiring assistance with drug and alcohol challenges.

"Sophie and the team will work closely with our regional nurses and mental health support worker, who is even spending time at WithYou to gain more knowledge and experience to help support our own employees."

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