08 January 2026
People facing drug and alcohol challenges in West Dunbartonshire are to get vital support from WithYou who have pledged "no one should face this alone".
The charity launches its drug and alcohol recovery service on 12 January, taking over from DACA and Alternatives, in an area blighted by some of Scotland's highest drug and alcohol death rates.
The launch coincides with Dry January, when millions across the UK take a break from alcohol to reset their relationship with drinking.
Tracy Morrice, head of service delivery for Scotland at WithYou, said: "We know that behind these statistics are real people, sons, daughters, parents, partners and friends. No one should face drug and alcohol challenges alone, and we're committed to being there for people in West Dunbartonshire when they need us most.
"DACA and Alternatives have provided dedicated support to people in this community for many years. We're grateful for their commitment and we'll be working closely with them and local recovery communities to build on that foundation and ensure continuity of care for everyone who needs it.”
WithYou will provide free, confidential support without judgement to people across the local authority area through a community-based model, working in locations across the area to make services as accessible as possible.
The service will include one-to-one support, group work including peer support groups, harm reduction advice, and recovery planning. WithYou will also provide support for family members and friends affected by a loved one's drug or alcohol use.
Tracy said: “Dry January can be a great reset for some people, but it's not safe for everyone. If you're drinking heavily or regularly and find it difficult to cut down, suddenly stopping can be dangerous.
That's exactly why we're here, to provide safe, professional support whether you want to stop completely, cut down gradually, or just get some advice. There's no judgement, and no one-size-fits-all approach.
The charity will work in partnership with local recovery communities, as well as NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and other third-sector providers, to support people at every stage of their recovery journey, whether that's staying safe and healthy, making small changes, or stopping use altogether.
Tracy explained: "Every person's journey is different. We'll work alongside people at their own pace, providing the support they need to make the changes they want in their lives. Our approach is always non-judgemental, trauma-informed and tailored to each individual's needs, circumstances and goals.
"We're committed to breaking down the stigma that stops people reaching out for help. Scotland's Charter of Rights for People Affected by Substance Use, places human dignity and rights at the centre, and that's exactly how we work.”
She added: "West Dunbartonshire strengthens our footprint across the west of Scotland, linking our services in Glasgow, East Dunbartonshire and Argyll and Bute. By working in communities across West Dunbartonshire, we can meet people where they are and break down barriers to accessing support.
We're looking forward to working with our partners to tackle the inequalities that prevent people from getting the help they need, and to make a real difference to people's lives.
Between 2020 and 2024, West Dunbartonshire recorded Scotland's third highest alcohol death rate at 28.7 per 100,000 people, behind only Glasgow City and Inverclyde. Drug deaths were also above the Scotland average at 29.8 per 100,000.
WithYou was awarded the contract by West Dunbartonshire Council following a competitive tender process. WithYou already operates drug and alcohol recovery services in communities across Scotland, supporting more than 14,000 people a year.
If you, or someone you know, needs support in West Dunbartonshire visit www.wearewithyou.org.uk/local-hubs/west-dunbartonshire, call us on 0800 652 1997, or use WithYou's free, confidential webchat service at www.wearewithyou.org.uk
