Wera Hobhouse, the Liberal Democrat MP for Bath, recently visited Burlington House, a vital residential support facility for individuals facing drug or alcohol dependency.
Burlington House provides a stable, supportive environment for individuals looking to recover from substance dependency. The facility includes a community detox suite, allowing people to safely detox from drugs and alcohol under the supervision of trained professionals. This ensures that clients can embark on their recovery journey with the assurance of medical support when necessary.
For over 25 years, DHI has been a beacon of hope for those in Bath and the surrounding areas, working tirelessly to break the cycle of homelessness, social isolation, and addiction. Through its dedicated services, DHI offers housing, employment advice, and specialised support for people battling substance abuse, helping them regain control of their lives and reintegrate into society.
The work of DHI and Burlington House has never been more crucial. Recent government statistics reveal a stark rise in alcohol-related deaths, with a 42% increase from 2019 to 2023, marking a fourth consecutive year of record-high fatalities. Alcohol is now directly responsible for at least 70 deaths a day in the UK, as well as contributing to more than 200 diseases and injuries. The financial burden of alcohol harm is equally alarming, with the Institute of Alcohol Studies estimating the total cost of alcohol-related harm in England at £27.4 billion annually. In Bath and North East Somerset, this figure amounts to £81.8 million, putting immense pressure on vital services like the NHS and the police.
During her visit, Mrs Hobhouse met with current residents and spoke with former service users, many of whom are now giving back by supporting others through the recovery process as peer supporters. One of these individuals, Ron, shared how Burlington House had been “life-saving” for him, helping him overcome his addiction and regain control of his life. Ron and others echoed the sentiment, expressing gratitude for the services that had played a key role in their recovery.
Zoe, another former service user, spoke candidly about the challenges of maintaining sobriety in a society where alcohol is ubiquitous in social settings and media. She highlighted how Burlington House provided not just detox support but also a vital community of “sober friends,” offering a sense of camaraderie and understanding that is crucial to staying on the path to recovery.
Wera Hobhouse MP expressed her admiration for the work being done at DHI, saying: “We are so fortunate to have such an incredible organisation in Bath, supporting people battling addiction and helping them rebuild their lives. The work of DHI is inspirational, providing life-changing support for individuals at every stage of recovery. The safety net provided by Burlington House, coupled with the empathy and care from DHI’s team, is making a real difference. I will continue to campaign for the support DHI needs to keep delivering its vital work.”
Rosie Phillips, founder and CEO of DHI, added: “At a time when resources are stretched, Burlington House offers an incredibly cost-effective solution for those who need a stable home while recovering from alcohol addiction. With continued support, we can help even more people turn their lives around.”
Thank you to Poppy Hull from the Institute of Alcohol Studies for arranging this visit.
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