Substance Misuse Support in Stoke-on-Trent
Confidential, non-judgemental support for substance misuse. Supervised consumption, needle exchange, and referral to specialist services.
How We Can Help
Norfolk Street Pharmacy provides a safe, confidential environment for people affected by substance misuse. Our trained pharmacists offer practical support, including supervised consumption of prescribed medication, needle and syringe exchange, and access to specialist treatment services.
We understand that substance misuse is a health issue, not a moral failing. Everyone who uses our service is treated with dignity and respect. No appointment is needed. You can walk in during our opening hours and speak to a member of our team in private.
If you are concerned about your own substance use, or are worried about someone close to you, we are here to help.
How It Works
Walk In
Visit us during our opening hours. No appointment or referral is needed. Ask to speak to a pharmacist in private.
Confidential Assessment
Our pharmacist will discuss your situation and explain the support options available to you. Everything is confidential.
Ongoing Support
We provide regular supervised consumption, clean equipment, and referrals to local specialist services if needed.
Benefits
- Completely confidential, non-judgemental service
- No appointment or GP referral required
- Open seven days a week including evenings
- Private consultation room available
- Supervised consumption of prescribed medication
- Free needle and syringe exchange programme
- Take-home naloxone kits available
- Direct referral to local specialist treatment services
Services We Provide
We offer the following substance misuse support services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the substance misuse service confidential?
Yes, completely. We treat all consultations and interactions with the strictest confidence. We will not share your information with anyone without your consent, except in very rare circumstances where there is an immediate risk to life.
Do I need an appointment or a referral?
No. You can walk in during our opening hours and ask to speak to a pharmacist. You do not need a referral from your GP or any other service. If you prefer, you can also call ahead to arrange a convenient time.
What is supervised consumption?
Supervised consumption means taking your prescribed substitute medication (such as methadone or buprenorphine) in the pharmacy under the observation of a pharmacist. This ensures you take the correct dose safely and helps prevent diversion of medication.
What is the needle exchange service?
We provide free, clean injecting equipment and safe disposal of used needles and syringes. This service reduces the risk of infections such as HIV and Hepatitis C. You do not need to provide your name or any personal details to use this service.
What is naloxone and how can I get it?
Naloxone is a medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It can save lives in an emergency. We provide take-home naloxone kits and training on how to use them. Ask any member of our pharmacy team for more information.
Can you refer me to specialist treatment?
Yes. Our pharmacists can refer you directly to local drug and alcohol treatment services, counselling, and support groups in Stoke-on-Trent and the surrounding area. We will support you through the referral process.
I am worried about someone else. Can you help?
Yes. If you are concerned about a friend or family member, you are welcome to come in and speak to a pharmacist for confidential advice. We can explain the support options available and, if appropriate, help you encourage the person to seek help.
This is not an emergency service. If you need urgent medical help, call NHS 111. For life-threatening emergencies, call 999.