Services

ADS Derby

Information about this service

Our service is free to anyone 18 or over who lives in the city of Derby and has problems with alcohol misuse. ADS Derby is the Single Point of Entry for all clients with alcohol misuse problems. This means that everyone is initially referred to ADS Derby for an assessment and depending on the nature and complexity of the alcohol misuse, we will either work with you directly or refer you to other specialist services that form part of the overall Derby Alcohol Misuse Service commissioned by NHS Derby City.

When you contact our office by phone

When you ring us you will hear a number of options to help us direct your call efficiently. Unless you know the extension number of the person you want to speak to from ADS team, the best option to select is “Stage 2″ A receptionist will then transfer your call to the right person in the ADS team to deal with your enquiry. ADS are sharing the premises with a number of other substance misuse services for Derby City, including the drugs and safeguarding services. As there will be a large number of clients working with a range of services based at St Andrews, there are 2 main entrances for all substance misuse clients at St Andrew’s House referred to as Stage 1/Entrance 1 and Stage 2/Entrance 2.

They are clearly marked outside the entrances with a yellow sign and each entrance has a reception area. When you are not sure where to go, please go to Stage 2/Entrance 2 and one of the receptionists will be happy to help you get to your appointment or meeting with ADS.

Stage 1 and Stage 2 reflect either the stage of the client’s treatment journey or the intensity of their treatment. Stage 1 clients are receiving high intensity treatment or are at the first stage of their treatment for drugs or alcohol. Stage 2 clients are receiving low intensity treatment or have progressed to the second stage of their treatment journey. Generally most ADS clients will be receiving low intensity alcohol treatment and will attend the second entrance.   

What happens when we meet?

First we find out what you want and need by completing a full assessment with one of our alcohol practitioners. You will then either be assigned your own key worker or referred to another specialist service if the outcome of your assessment indicates this is the right step for you. If it is appropriate for you to be supported by the ADS team, together we will develop a plan to tackle your concerns and work out goals for your treatment. This plan might include individual support with your key worker or joining a selection of groups within our project. We also offer acupuncture and are able to see female or vulnerable clients at the Family Justice Centre in Derby (St Peter’s House, Gower Street). If you are housebound we can arrange to visit you at home. Please contact our main reception on the number above for further updates on this service.

Primary Care Alcohol Service

We have alcohol practitioners working with some of our G.P. surgeries and they run clinics where information, advice and counselling on alcohol misuse is available. If appropriate, referral into the main alcohol service is undertaken, should you wish to follow this path. Access to this service is through referral from G.Ps and surgery staff.

We’ll make you welcome

• Contact us by phone for advice and information
• Book an appointment by phone or in person
• Ask for a referral from any source in the community, such as your GP.
• Our service is confidential
• We have a committed and experienced team

Call our freephone number 0800 0515 857 for more information.