If you are beginning to question your relationship with alcohol or drugs, or you are simply feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone — and you do not need to have all the answers before asking for help.

At Murray’s Initiative, we understand that reaching out can feel like a big step. That is why we meet you with care, respect and without judgement. Whether you are thinking about cutting back, stopping completely or just want someone to talk to, we are here.

Here is what you can expect when you get in touch:

• A safe, confidential space — Our trained team will listen without judgement. You can talk about what is going on at your own pace.

• Support that starts with you — There is no pressure to make big changes right away. We will work with you to understand what is behind your alcohol or drug use and what matters most to you.

• Realistic, meaningful goals — Whether you want to reduce your use, stop completely or simply feel more in control, we will support whatever path feels right for you.

• Personalised strategies that work for your life — No one-size-fits-all advice. We help you explore practical tools, coping strategies and local resources that fit your needs.

• Free and non-judgemental support — Most of our services are free to access, including alcohol counselling, peer support and wellbeing programmes. The only exception is our Drugs Counselling service, which has a small, subsidised fee due to lack of external funding — but we do everything we can to keep it affordable.

Thinking About Reaching Out?

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• You do not need to be in crisis to ask for help. Many people come to us simply because something does not feel right or because they are tired of doing it alone.

• Change does not happen overnight — and that is okay. The first step is starting a conversation.

• There is no “right” way to get support. Whether it is a phone call, a quiet chat with a Counsellor, or joining a group, we will help you find what works best for you.

Taking that first step can feel daunting — but it is also a powerful act of self-care. And whatever you are facing, we are here to walk alongside you. 

Everyone’s journey is different. We offer a variety of services to match the diverse needs and experiences of the people we support. We offer the following services free:

• Alcohol Counselling — One-to-one support for anyone affected by their own or someone else’s drinking.

• Elevate Employability — Helping people in recovery build skills, confidence and pathways into work, training or volunteering.

• LGBTQ+ Wellbeing — Support designed by and for LGBTQ+ people.

• Men’s Service — A safe space for men to focus on health, wellbeing and recovery.

• U-Turn Peer Support — Peer education programme from 12–25 years, building resilience and leadership through workshops and volunteering.

• Women’s Service — Specialist one-to-one and group support for women, including survivors of abuse and trauma.

• Young Person’s Service — Recovery and employability support for 16–24 year olds.

We also offer the following services for which we must charge a nominal amount as we currently do not have funding to support delivery:

• Counselling For Cocaine or Cannabis Use — Confidential counselling focused on harm from cocaine or cannabis use.

Explore your relationship with alcohol here:

Rethink Your Drink