Support for family, friends and loved ones

Supporting a loved one who is struggling can be really difficult. At Wirral Ways we don’t just offer support to those who are struggling with their drug and alcohol use but also their family, friends and loved ones around them.

“If someone you care about is having a tough time with drugs or alcohol, we’re here to listen. We can talk through how you might support them and explore the help that’s available.”

Emily McGuinn

Keyworker

Babs is one of our inspiring volunteers who sadly lost her son due to his alcohol use. Babs now dedicates her time to supporting others who are in her position.

SILK Spider Family Support

Spider is a creative arts and wellbeing recovery community project based in Wirral, supporting individuals with low-level mental health challenges and those in recovery from drug or alcohol use. The Spider Family support service is designed for anyone who has a loved one—whether a friend, family member, or someone they care for—who is struggling with drugs or alcohol. It offers support to those feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure how to help. The service provides one-to-one support, group sessions, creative courses, and telephone support, helping people feel more supported and less alone.

Find out more

Life Is A Gift

Life Is a Gift is a peer support group in Wirral for anyone affected by someone else’s drug or alcohol use. Whether it’s a partner, parent, child, or friend, the group offers a safe and welcoming space to talk, listen, and connect with others who understand what you’re going through. It provides guided peer support, practical advice, and emotional encouragement—helping people feel less alone and more supported. Life Is a Gift reminds participants that their wellbeing matters too, offering time to reflect, recharge, and prioritise their own needs. The group is open to anyone in Wirral who is supporting a loved one with substance use issues.

Tuesdays | Price Street | 1pm – 3pm

Thursdays | Moreton Community Centre | 7pm – 9pm

Wellbeing support for friends and family

When someone you care about is going through a tough time, it’s natural to focus on their wellbeing. But your own wellbeing matters too. Looking after yourself isn’t selfish—it helps you stay strong so you can support the people you love.

We know it can be hard to prioritise your own needs when you’re also coping with stress or family issues. That’s why we’ve pulled together some ideas to help you feel a little calmer, more in control, and better supported.

Stay connected

Talking to someone you trust can make a real difference. Sharing your worries can help you feel heard—and it might also lead to the right support for you and your loved one.

Look after your health

Small things like getting enough sleep, eating well, and moving your body can help you feel better both physically and emotionally.

Keep the conversation going

If you’re worried about someone, check in with them. Being open and honest helps them feel safe talking to you. Even if you don’t have all the answers, let them know you’re there and you’ll do your best to support them.

Make time for you

You deserve time to rest, relax, and do things you enjoy. Life can feel overwhelming, and stepping back to recharge isn’t just OK—it’s essential.

Try the Five Ways to Wellbeing

The New Economics Foundation has shared five simple actions you can take to boost your wellbeing. You can do them on your own or with someone else.
👉 Learn more about the Five Ways to Wellbeing

Need more support?

If someone you care about is struggling with alcohol or drugs, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to manage it on your own.

How to talk to someone about their drinking or drug use

Starting a conversation with someone you care about can be one of the most powerful ways to support them.

Talking openly can help you both understand what’s going on and encourage them to take steps towards feeling safer and healthier. It’s not always easy—but you don’t have to do it alone. Here are some tips that might help.

Starting the conversation

  • Choose the right time and place. Pick somewhere familiar and calm, where you won’t be interrupted or rushed.

  • Do your homework. Understanding more about drugs or alcohol will help you feel more confident and aware of the support available.

  • Give yourself time. These conversations take space and patience. Try not to bring it up if you or the other person are tired, stressed or distracted.

  • Be open and honest. Instead of making accusations, try something gentle: “I’ve noticed a few things and I wondered if we could have a chat?”

  • Use real examples. Sharing specific things you’ve noticed can help them understand why you’re worried—without sounding like you’re keeping tabs.

  • Listen first. Listening carefully shows you care and helps them feel heard. It can make it easier for them to open up.

  • Ask open questions. Try “How have you been feeling after drinking?” instead of “Do you think you have a problem?”

  • Talk about next steps together. Keep it collaborative. “Would it help to talk to someone?” can feel more supportive than “You need to get help.”

If the conversation doesn’t go to plan

It’s OK if things don’t go well the first time. People often feel scared, ashamed or defensive. If someone gets upset or angry, try to stay calm—and give them space if they need it.

If things got tense, you might want to follow up later with a simple apology for how it felt, and let them know you’re still there when they’re ready.

And remember: if they’re not ready to talk, that’s not your fault. Just starting the conversation may make them more likely to open up in the future.

What happens next?

If they’re open to getting support, you can help them find the right next step. That might mean exploring local services, speaking to a professional, or simply having another chat soon.