Bromley Drug and Alcohol Services Report 2025

Healthwatch Bromley examines the experiences of people using substance misuse services in Bromley, along with the views of professionals and family members. The report is based on surveys, focus groups, and engagement activities with 43 participants, including service users, healthcare professionals, and carers. 

The report highlights that substance misuse remains an important public health issue, even though rates in Bromley are lower than national averages. Local services are primarily delivered by Change Grow Live (CGL), which provides a wide range of support including one-to-one key work, group support, prescribing, and harm reduction services. 

Overall, experiences of services are very positive. Most service users reported that support was easy to access and effective, with 96% saying it had a positive impact on their lives. Many described improved wellbeing, increased stability, and progress towards recovery, although relapse was sometimes part of this journey. 

A key strength identified in the report is personalised, relationship-based support. Service users valued consistent one-to-one contact, feeling listened to, and being treated without judgement. Group and peer support were also seen as helpful in reducing isolation and encouraging recovery. 

The report finds that access to services is generally good, with clear referral pathways and welcoming initial contact. However, a small number of participants reported challenges such as waiting times or lack of awareness of available support, suggesting some gaps in accessibility. 

Findings on coordination between services were mixed. While partnership working across health, social care, and criminal justice services is recognised, there are still issues with communication and information sharing, which can affect continuity of care. 

The report also identifies barriers for people with complex needs, including those experiencing homelessness, mental health conditions, or multiple disadvantages. These groups are more likely to face difficulties accessing or staying engaged with services. 

Another important finding is the role of service culture and environment. Staff were widely praised for being compassionate and supportive, and recovery spaces such as the Clean Slate Project were valued for creating a sense of community, safety, and belonging. 

Based on these findings, the report makes several recommendations. These include improving coordination and information sharing across services, prioritising support for individuals with complex needs, strengthening housing and recovery pathways, and continuing investment in personalised and peer-based support.

In summary, the report concludes that Bromley’s drug and alcohol services are effective and well-regarded, but further improvements are needed in coordination, equity of access, and long-term support to ensure better outcomes for all service users.