At WithYou, we know that personal stories of recovery can be powerful. They can break down stigma, inspire others and show that recovery is possible. But we also understand that sharing your story is deeply personal and must always be done safely, respectfully and with full consent.
We are committed to protecting the wellbeing, dignity and rights of individuals in treatment and recovery. Some clients, staff or volunteers may choose to share their personal information and stories for the organisation to potentially use internally and externally.
As a national charity supporting people with drug, alcohol and mental health challenges, we recognise the very sensitive nature of these experiences and the potential emotional, social and legal implications of sharing.
WithYou therefore upholds the following principles as part of our duty of care:
No client, staff or volunteer story will be shared without the individual’s fully informed and voluntary consent. We provide written information via a consent form and explain in detail verbally and / or by written explanations how their story may be used, where it may appear and the possible short and long-term impacts of sharing publicly. This may be impacts related to their personal life or of someone they know, including family members and dependents.
Each person is given a WithYou contact, consent is documented in writing and may be withdrawn at any time. Clients, staff or volunteers will never be pressured to participate in promotional activities.
We are committed to protecting privacy and safeguarding lasting recovery. Where preferred or necessary, names and identifying details will be changed and a person may choose to remain anonymous. All data is handled in line with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.
We understand that reflecting on experiences of substance misuse, trauma and recovery can be emotionally challenging. We assess the emotional readiness of each person with empathy, liaising with recovery workers and support staff where required (or guardian where legally required) and ensure appropriate support is in place before, during and after any involvement.
Clients, staff and volunteers are reminded that their recovery journey is personal and unique. Participation in promotional or media activity should never compromise their wellbeing, recovery progress or sustainability.
Stories will be shared in a way that respects the individual’s voice and avoids stigma, stereotyping or sensationalism. Where possible and preferable, clients, staff and volunteers are given the opportunity to review and approve how their story is told before it is shared publicly.
We aim to empower people through this process, ensuring they feel ownership over their story and how it is represented.
Our responsibility does not end at publication. We can stay in contact with people directly if appropriate or via an identified staff member after their story is shared if they wish and are responsive to any concerns that may arise, including requests to amend, remove, or limit further use of the story.
At WithYou, we believe that personal stories of recovery have the power to reduce stigma, inspire hope, and promote understanding of addiction. However, we will never compromise the health, dignity, or autonomy of those we support in pursuit of public or media engagement.
WithYou
wearewithyou.org.uk