This past weekend, Wirral Ways was proud to team up with colleagues from across Merseyside to support the Welfare Team at BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Sefton Park, Liverpool.
The event welcomed thousands of music lovers from across the region and beyond, and we were there alongside the brilliant BBC Welfare team and TLC Welfare to ensure that everyone had access to harm reduction advice, wellbeing support, and a friendly, non-judgemental presence.
As part of our commitment to promoting safer practices and supporting people around their drug and alcohol use, our team spent the weekend offering practical advice, resources, and real-time support to festival-goers. We had hundreds of conversations over the course of the event—whether it was offering guidance on staying hydrated and looking after friends, or providing information about substances and how to reduce risk. Our aim was simple: to help people stay safe, informed, and empowered to make choices that support their wellbeing.
We were hugely encouraged by how receptive the crowd was. Many people took the time to thank us for being there, and the event staff were incredibly supportive of our work on site. There was a real sense of community and care throughout the weekend, and we were proud to play a small but important part in that.
Festivals like Big Weekend are amazing experiences, but they can also bring risks—especially when substances are involved. By being visible, approachable, and informed, our team helped break down stigma and opened up important conversations about harm reduction and recovery.
A massive thank you to BBC Radio 1 and TLC Welfare for having us as part of such an incredible weekend. Collaborations like this are a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we work together to prioritise people’s health, safety, and dignity.
Whether someone needed information, reassurance, or just someone to talk to, we were there—and we’re proud to continue supporting our communities wherever and however we’re needed.
Last Updated on 29 May 2025