Published by Sue Johns-Chapman
Published Date 23.07.2025 
WithYou exists to support anyone experiencing drug, alcohol and mental health challenges across England and Scotland.
In celebration of Women’s History Month, we created a campaign to highlight the often overlooked challenges women face with drugs, alcohol, and mental health. Centred on real stories told by women themselves, the campaign aimed to break stigma and build connection. We are honoured that this work has been shortlisted for an award.
“As a woman, I feel you are judged much more for depending on alcohol. ”
At the core of what we do are real people and real stories. The clients featured in our campaign are testament to that – and to everything we stand for here at WithYou.
That’s why we’re so proud to have been shortlisted for a UK Content Award.
“They’re just so supportive. They’re there if I need them.”
We’re working towards a future free from harm caused by alcohol and drugs, where anyone seeking help feels welcomed, not judged. A big part of that is ending the stigma that surrounds these challenges.
When it comes to drug and alcohol use, women face unique and often overlooked challenges. Judgment. Fear. Stigma. The weight of shame, especially as women are seen as primary caregivers. Many suffer in silence, convinced they have to hold it all together or risk losing everything by asking for help.
That silence is deadly.
So we set out to break it.
“Within the group, I know I can say exactly what’s going on in my life, without being judged.”
We wanted to showcase our clients’ lived experiences, unashamedly and unapologetically. This campaign was a chance to showcase the brilliant people, partnerships, and voices within our community. And to show other women they are not alone.
”If I’m struggling emotionally during the week, I know I can come here and let it out.”
Our mission has always been to help one another, and we know that everyone has a unique recovery path. We work side-by-side with our clients as equals. Whether you’re looking to stay safe and healthy, make small changes, or stop a harmful habit altogether, we’re here. What matters most is that we connect and create a safe space for you.
“I was in a bad way. Just a recluse. I came to WithYou, and they’ve helped me through everything.”
Community is embedded within our culture. That sense of connection, whether this be with our staff, with other clients, or with yourself, is something we understand the value of. It’s what allows recovery to take root. It provides a sense of belonging and purpose that is so often missing.
“I don’t feel like I’m by myself anymore. There’s somebody always there.”
Stigma – especially among women – runs deep. We know from our clients that it’s a huge barrier to accessing our services.
That’s why we deliberately featured women at different stages of recovery: from those newly in treatment to ex-clients now volunteering or working with us. We wanted to demonstrate that people who experience challenges with alcohol and drugs are real people, and that these challenges can affect anyone. There should never be any shame in accessing the support.
Every woman in this campaign stepped forward to share her story so that someone else might feel seen, understood, and supported.
“WithYou helped me find my voice when I couldn’t. They spoke up for me when I didn’t think anyone was listening.”
Through more content like this, we hope to continue dismantling the shame associated with drug, alcohol or mental health challenges and remove the barriers that prevent people from reaching out for help.
WithYou is honoured to have been shortlisted for a UK Content Award, and we’re really excited to join other changemakers at the ceremony.
Until then, we’ll continue in our mission to empower individuals, break down barriers, and make positive change by amplifying the voices that matter.
Connect:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearewithyoucharity
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/withyou/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/we-are-with-you/
