Liverpool Combating Drugs Partnership drives forward citywide action 

Liverpool Combating Drugs Partnership drives forward citywide action 

On Friday 6th February, various partners from across Liverpool gathered for the quarterly meeting of the Liverpool Combating Drugs Partnership (CDP), reaffirming their shared dedication to tackling drug and alcohol-related harms throughout the city. This partnership leads Liverpool’s proactive efforts to reduce harm, crime, and fatalities linked to substance use by adopting a ‘whole-system approach’. It brings together a wide range of stakeholders, including local government officials, health and addiction services, police, criminal justice agencies, and voluntary organisations, all reporting into the Council’s CitySafe Board.

During the meeting, the LGBT Foundation highlighted their collaborative work aimed at closing the gap between tailored LGBTQ+ support and mainstream services, while actively addressing stigma. They emphasized that while some individuals require specialised LGBTQ+ services, others feel their sexuality or gender identity does not affect their ability to access mainstream provisions. The Foundation stressed the importance of offering both choice and integration to better serve diverse needs. The session underscored inclusive, community-led assistance as crucial to achieving positive outcomes for LGBTQ+ people affected by drug and alcohol use.

Professor Harry Sumnall from Liverpool John Moores University provided an update on the anti-stigma research pilot involving Liverpool CDP. This study investigates how stigma, whether anticipated or experienced, acts as a barrier that deters individuals from seeking treatment due to fears of judgment or discrimination. The research aims to deepen understanding of attitudes and behaviors around stigma, aiding in the creation of more supportive and respectful environments for people who use alcohol and drugs.

Additionally, representatives from across a range of local organisations shared updates, further enhancing the collective understanding of community needs and identifying new opportunities for collaboration. Attendees included members of Liverpool City Council, Merseyside Police, the NHS, The Forward Trust, River Drug and Alcohol Support Service, Whitechapel, YMCA, Sanctuary, Merseyside Probation, Emerging Futures, Lifeboat Recovery Co, and others. The next gathering of the partnership is planned for 29 June 2026. For further information on the Liverpool Combating Drugs Partnership, contact publichealth@liverpool.gov.uk. Those seeking free and confidential support regarding drug and alcohol issues can reach out to River Support Services by visiting their website or calling 0151 706 7888

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