Childhood trauma

Although the effects of ACEs can last a lifetime, the good news is that they don't have to. By seeking support, you can both reduce the impact of ACEs on your own life and break the cycle to prevent ACEs occurring in the next generation. This support can come from something as simple as a chat with a friend or family member, via your GP, or through one of the wide range of local and national organisations below that will help you recognise, work through and reverse the impact of ACEs for yourself or somebody you care about.

Drugs, alcohol and crime

• ADFAM gives information and support for the families of drug and alcohol users
• Alcoholics anonymous - if your drinking is causing you problems and you wish to stop drinking, call 0800 917 7650
• Go2 - Blackburn with Darwen young people's drug and alcohol service can support you with alcohol and drug abuse (including cannabis, heroin and ecstasy, 'legal highs', prescription and over the counter medication and multiple drug and/or alcohol use). They offer free and confidential advice and information for anyone under 25, as well as support for the whole family. You can call them on 01254 495014 or visit their Facebook and Twitter pages.
• Inspire - Blackburn with Darwen's integrated prevention and recovery service offers a wide range of support for anyone worried about their own or somebody else's substance/alcohol use. They offer advice and guidance to individuals and family members through rapid and open access assessment, leading to support and treatment. You can call them on 01254 495014 or visit their Facebook page.
• UK Narcotics Anonymous is a society of recovering addicts for whom drugs had become a major problem, that meets regularly to help each other stop using and stay clean. You can call 0300 999 1212 for support.
• Victim Support is a national charity giving free and confidential help to anyone affected by crime. You can call 0808 168 9111 or visit their website.

Abuse and relationships

• The WISH centre is often the first point of contact for people in Blackburn with Darwen who are experiencing domestic abuse. Fully qualified and specialist staff are available to discuss choices and options in a non-judgemental way, providing emotional and practical support.
• The Wish Centre is often the first point of contact for people in Blackburn with Darwen who are experiencing domestic abuse. Trained staff are available to discuss choices and options in a non-judgemental way, providing emotional and practical support. You can call them on 01254 260465 or visit their Twitter page.
• NSPCC is a major UK charity specialising in child protection and the prevention of cruelty to children; their aim is to end cruelty to children. If you are an adult that experienced abuse as a child, the NSPCC can also provide help and advice. Help for adults concerned about a child can call 0808 800 5000, text 88858 or visit their website.
• Women's Aid is a national charity working to end domestic violence against women and children. Call 0808 2000 247 for support.
• Relate is a counselling service working to promote health, respect and justice in couple and family relationships. You can call 0300 100 1234.

Mental health

• Big White Wall - if you're experiencing a tough time at home or work or struggling with mental health issues, you can now access free online professional and peer support. Big White Wall provides safe, anonymous and free online support for over 16's, 24/7, with a supportive community, information and self-help resources and trained counsellors online at all times. You can call them on 01254 495014 or visit their Facebook and Twitter pages.
• Lancashire Mind is a passionate movement leading the mental wellbeing revolution in Lancashire. We campaign to make your mental wellbeing a local priority, and help you find the tools you need to manage, maintain and improve your mental wellbeing. For support, call 01257 231660 or visit their Facebook and Twitter pages.
• Samaritans - Talk to us any time you like, in your own way, and off the record – about whatever's getting to you. You don't have to be suicidal. We know a lot about what can help you through tough times. We can help you explore your options, understand your problems better, or just be there to listen. Call 01254 662424 (local call charges apply) or the national line on 116 123 (this number is free to call) for advice. You can also visit their Facebook and Twitter pages.