Our CEO Julian Stanley Discusses £2 Million Funding Boost for Drug and Alcohol Misuse in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough

Local health services in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough are to receive a significant boost, with almost £2 million in funding allocated by the government for the next year. This funding aims to enhance treatment options, with the hope that it will also contribute to reducing crime associated with substance misuse.

Julian discussed the region's statistics, noting that they are slightly above the national average. He emphasised the nature of the issue, with individuals falling on a spectrum of misuse and facing various challenges related to their mental health, living situations, and overall well-being.

Highlighting the role of Healthwatch in listening to the public's views, Julian praised the existing services in the region, including the Cambridgeshire recovery service, Change Grow Live, the Sun Network, and Centre 33. These organisations provide valuable support to both young people and adults dealing with substance misuse.

Regarding the £2 million funding injection, Julian welcomed the financial support but raised concerns about the overall decline in funding for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough over the years. He pointed out that some constraints on how the money is spent may limit its impact, echoing sentiments from service providers in the region.

As our organisation remains committed to addressing the multifaceted challenges of drug and alcohol misuse, Julian's insights shed light on both the progress made and the ongoing hurdles faced by the community in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.

To listen to the full interview, click the video below.