About Our Helpline

Phoning us is the fastest way to get in touch, but you can also email us helpline@sfad.org.uk or chat on our online live help which can be accessed on our website, and you can also complete the form here.

If you are calling outside helpline hours, you can leave a voicemail message with your name, phone number (including area code) and a time that is suitable for us to call you back. If you would like us to leave you a message please let us know otherwise we will not call you back. We will be calling from the helpline number 08080 10 10 11.

Our helpline is also the quickest way to find out about support options across Scotland including our Telehealth and Bereavement services. The helpline adviser will discuss your current situation and look at choices of support for you and your family.

We understand that making the call can be difficult; it may even be the first time you have spoken to another person about someone’s alcohol or drug problem.

Our advisers are there to listen for as long as you need them. The earlier you explore support options for you and your wider family the better. Your call can be for some information, advice, or reassurance. When you feel you need to talk to us, we are here to listen.

Calls to the helpline are free from landlines and mobile phones.

Please share our helpline number with anyone you think needs it : 08080 10 10 11.

What happens when I call?

One of our supportive helpline advisers will answer your call; they will listen and provide information and guidance. We recognise that family members sometimes don’t know where to start looking for support. That’s why we will ask for the first part of your postcode and identify support options local to where you stay. They may suggest a referral to one of our other services, such as Telehealth if appropriate.

The helpline advisers are trained to listen and provide information on a range of services that will benefit your wider family and not only yourself. They can provide information on treatment services, recovery groups, BBV/harm reduction services and self-help to name a few. Even if you are currently being supported by a service but are having a difficult day and would like someone to talk to we are here to listen.

Your privacy

We keep statistics about our helpline calls to have a better understanding of where our callers live and where they have found our helpline number. We ask for your age and location but do not ask for any personal details unless you are being referred into one of our services.

If you do not want to share personal information with us such as your name, address, age, etc. you don’t have to. If you are being referred into one of our services we will need a name and a contact number to pass onto our practitioners and counsellors so they can contact you.