A space for members to discuss, analyse and amplify
The Anti‑Stigma Network recognises that language carries power, and certain words or phrases can perpetuate stigma. However, intent and context matter, and meaning can shift depending on how and why language is used.
For this reason, you may see words on our site that appear at odds with commonly accepted guidance. In our blog specifically, the language is the writer’s own, and we publish pieces as written - particularly when terms appear in the title of a play, artwork or lived‑experience narrative. Changing or policing those words would alter the integrity of the contributor’s voice.
As we continue to deepen our understanding of stigma and language, we believe it’s important to allow people to speak authentically rather than risk silencing valuable perspectives.
If you have something stigma related that you want to say or to share that you think members will benefit from please contact us at [email protected] with your article.
Stigma Survives in Silence - And Breaks When We Speak
A personal exploration of substance use, shame, and the stories we’re taught to hide. In this piece, guest writer Bea looks at how stigma takes hold - and why speaking openly about our experiences can be the first step in breaking it.
Challenging stigma through storytelling: An interview with Stuart Falconer from The Junkie Miracles
Actor and producer Stuart Falconer shares how theatre can challenge stigma around people affected by drug and alcohol use through raw, real-life storytelling. In this interview, he reflects on stigma, representation, and why authentic storytelling can change how we see these experiences.
How Much Is Your Life Worth? The Hidden Price of Compassion
Decisions about support for people facing substance use challenges are often framed as economic - but they are also shaped by powerful assumptions about responsibility and worth. This new blog explores how stigma influences funding for treatment, and why those in greatest need are often least supported.
Working Together to Tackle Stigma: Welcoming Jon Shorrock to the Anti-Stigma Network
We’re delighted to welcome Jon Shorrock to the Anti-Stigma Network. With more than 30 years’ experience across drug and alcohol services, Jon has spent much of his career challenging the stigma faced by people who use drugs and alcohol.
As Jon writes in this blog, stigma can appear in both subtle and overt ways. Here, Jon reflects on what he has witnessed throughout his career and why working together across systems is essential if we are to create real change.
Back the Movement for Equality, Dignity and Real Change
The Anti-Stigma Network (ASN) is a volunteer-led organisation working to reduce the stigma and discrimination faced by people affected by drug and alcohol use.
Stigma has real consequences. It stops people from accessing healthcare, housing and employment. It pushes people out of their communities and leaves them feeling unsafe and isolated. Over time, it deepens inequality and contributes to poor health and early death. ASN exists to challenge these barriers and to promote dignity, fairness and compassion in policy and practice.
Building Community Connections Through Music
Wirral Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Centre provides residential support for people recovering from drug and alcohol dependency. As part of its commitment to recovery, community integration, and reducing stigma, Wirral Residential runs a co-produced choir made up of residents and staff.
Our response to the ACMD’S call for evidence on Drug use in LGBT+ Communities and Chemsex
The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) recently issued a call for evidence exploring patterns of drug use and drug-related harms within LGBT+ communities across the UK, with a particular focus on chemsex. The review seeks to better understand the unique drivers of substance use, the barriers people face when accessing support, and the actions needed to reduce harm and improve outcomes for LGBT+ people.
Voice of the Voiceless: How we worked together to create materials to help reduce stigma for people receiving opioid substitution therapy in pharmacies
Read the story of The Voice of the Voiceless, a collaborative project that co-produced a booklet to reduce stigma and improve pharmacy experiences for opioid substitution therapy recipients.
The healing power of nature in recovery from substance dependence
Not only do nature-based programmes provide therapeutic effects for current or past substance users, but the psychological, physical, and social benefits are substantial. Dr Wendy Masterton from the University of Stirling explains.
Men will rather____________instead of going to therapy
There’s a meme that has been around for a few years now online where you insert some ridiculous thing men would rather do than go to therapy.
However, it’s rooted in a truth that men are less likely to seek support than women.
Response to the latest report of Drug-Related Deaths in England and Wales 2024
We are deeply saddened by the release of today’s ONS data, which shows a record 5,565 people died from drug-related causes in England and Wales in 2024—the highest level since records began in 1993. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families, friends, and communities who have lost loved ones.
Stigma, Substance Use, and the Struggle to Access Rehab
Phoenix's residential treatment service. These findings are derived from a recent survey of our resident's experiences.
The Importance of Language – Not Apportioning Blame
Loved ones should never be left with a feeling of blame or shame about their friend or family member. Let us commit to using compassionate, respectful, and non-blaming language when describing individuals in coronial inquests and service records.
Invisible in A&E: What Jack’s Story Teaches Us About Ketamine Stigma
When it comes to ketamine use, early intervention and harm reduction is key. Jo Moore, manager and safeguarding lead at Birchwood Residential service, Kaleidoscope, believes we have along way to go but she’s hopeful that recent improvements around the UK are having a positive impact.
Naloxone Saves Lives – But Stigma Still Stands in the Way
On Overdose Awareness Day, we remember those we’ve lost, celebrate every life saved, and shine a light on how stigma continues to put people at risk.
Museums and Galleries can Play a Pivotal Role in Reducing Stigma around Substance Use - Guest blog from Mark Prest
In 2023, Portraits of Recovery (PORe), delivered our first Recoverist Month. Its mission: to reduce societal stigma surrounding substance use and recovery through contemporary arts. And as a man in recovery with a professional background in the arts, the programme's aims are a deeply personal mission.
Breaking the Silence: How Stigma in Healthcare Deepens the Harms of Ketamine Use
As ketamine use rises among young people in the UK, new evidence from Phoenix Futures—a national charity supporting people with drug and alcohol issues—reveals a troubling pattern: stigma in healthcare settings is not only harming young people and creating barriers to recovery.
Giving Back What I Once Needed: Kelly’s Journey with the Amy Winehouse Foundation
I first learned about volunteering at the Amy Winehouse Foundation during a house meeting. As a former resident at Amy’s Place, I’ve experienced first hand how the foundation supports young women who use drugs and alcohol.
Challenging the Narrative: Media, Drug Use, and the Creation of Stigma, and How We Can Rewrite the Story.
Growing up in poverty, with experiences of homelessness, substance use, and encounters with the criminal justice system. In June 2025, I became the first in my family not only to attend university but to graduate.
Taking care in stigma reduction: Guest Blog by Adam Holland and Lucille Seppi
Stigma can affect anyone who uses alcohol or other drugs, negatively impacting their health and wellbeing, and increasing the likelihood they experience drug-related harm. Fear of judgement or unkind treatment prevents many people from seeking support when they need it. And stigma amongst the public and policymakers can promote unevidenced and harmful policies, compounding international drug-related death crises.