Staff at the Southampton Bridge
The Bridge provides Southampton with a welcoming ‘one stop’ entry point for advice on drug related issues. It offers support, assessment and treatment for people with drug problems, with the aim of reducing harm to themselves and to the community.
The support we offer
The Bridge offers a drop in service. Drug workers and trained volunteers will provide immediate assistance for enquiries, same day assessment, and rapid referral into treatment. For many, treatment will commence at the Bridge. We will usually support an individual for about 12-16 weeks, and then refer them on to other services where necessary.
How do service users access the service?
Just come on in! You do not have to phone or make an initial appointment, although you can do so if you wish. We are happy to speak on the telephone about the service, and answer any questions you may have.
How do referring agencies access the service?
A referral can be taken in writing or by phone. We will need a contact address or phone number for the person and will then invite them to come to the service. We may offer a choice of coming to the building or meeting with an outreach drugs worker.
The referring agency will be informed of the invitation and take up of the service.
For more information please contact:
Any member of staff at The Bridge
Telephone: 02380 881 400
Useful Links
If you want to find out more about substance misuse, you might find the following sites useful.
The Southampton Bridge (and DIP)
No 4 The Carronades, New Road Southampton, SO14 0AA
Office: 02380 881 400
Fax: 02380 633 574
Sarah’s Story
Sarah was a heavy drug user when she first contacted The Bridge, SSJ’s open access drugs support service. Together with her key worker, Sarah developed a plan for her treatment which included a substitute prescription programme. Sarah attended the dosing clinic daily. She also had the chance to meet regularly with her key worker to talk through what led to her drug use. Together, they identified positive changes that Sarah could make in her life.
Sarah made great progress. After three months in the programme, her prescribing needs had stabilised and she was able to attend the clinic less regularly.
Now that Sarah’s addiction has been stabilised, she is looking to the future. Her long term goal is to get involved with some voluntary work so that she can take steps back towards employment.
