Sticks and Stones

St Helens Borough Council, in collaboration with the Institute of Voluntary Action Research (IVAR), has launched a powerful anti-stigma campaign aimed at challenging negative perceptions surrounding drug and alcohol use. At the heart of this initiative is the Anti-Stigma Charter, developed by individuals with lived experience who understand the barriers stigma creates in accessing support and treatment. The campaign calls on businesses, organizations, and the community to recognize stigma as one of the biggest challenges for people struggling with substance use and to commit to treating individuals with dignity and compassion.

A key feature of the campaign is the film “Sticks and Stones,” produced by Andrew Bourne and Change Grow Live. The film brings real-life stories to the forefront, showing the deep impact of stigma on individuals and their families. Premiered at an event hosted by the council’s Inequalities Commission, the film serves as a call for greater understanding and empathy. Discussions during the event highlighted the need to challenge judgmental language, promote visible recovery, and ensure that people struggling with substance use are seen as individuals rather than being defined by their addiction.

Organizations and individuals are encouraged to sign up to the Anti-Stigma Charter, committing to four key principles: treating people with compassion, seeing them beyond their substance use, using non-stigmatizing language, and challenging harmful beliefs. By fostering a culture of respect and understanding, St Helens is taking meaningful steps toward reducing stigma and creating a more inclusive community.

Find more from St Helens Borough Council (UK, January 2025)

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