‘Any bang or flash can trigger a response’: Veteran who now supports people struggling with drugs and alcohol on the impact of Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night can be a difficult experience for those who have served in the armed forces, says Andrew Stafford, 58, recovery worker for drug and alcohol charity WithYou in Wigan and Leigh.

Andrew served in the army for six years, and has struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder himself. He now works for WithYou supporting people struggling with drugs and alcohol, including veterans and those still serving.

Andrew said, “I do not like fireworks. However, this is not limited to fireworks. Any bangs or flashes seem to trigger an automatic response from me. I duck or crouch down, then the adrenaline starts pumping, bringing back memories of past service life.”

According to the UK Government Adult Substance Misuse Treatment Statistics, nearly three-quarters (74%) of adults starting drug or alcohol treatment in 2024–2025 reported a co-occurring mental health treatment need. Individuals with PTSD are almost 4 times more likely to develop an alcohol-use disorder compared to those without PTSD, according to PTSD UK.

The message for Bonfire Night isn’t to stop celebrating. It’s to think about the people around you, and Andrew suggests a few small things that can help:

• Attend an organised display that’s advertised in advance - rather than setting off fireworks at home

• If you are celebrating at home, tell neighbours when fireworks are planned

• Choose modern, low-noise fireworks

WithYou in Wigan and Leigh has recently launched a new pilot supporting people in the armed forces community. It is embedding trauma-focused therapies - including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Compassion Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy - into WithYou’s treatment pathway, ensuring people do not have to choose between addressing their substance use and addressing their trauma.

Working in partnership with BAC O’Connor, WithYou in Wigan and Leigh offers a range of services including one-to-one support, community rehab, and structured group programmes - all without judgement and without a GP referral. Anyone - whether an adult, young person, or family member - can refer themselves directly by contacting 01942 487500 or visiting: wearewithyou.org.uk/local-hubs/wigan-and-leigh