A rehab clinic in Havering

A guide to drug and alcohol rehab in Havering, London

There are many different options for addiction treatment in Havering, and we understand that taking the decision to get help for addiction can be a difficult and emotional process. We’ve created this guide for drug and alcohol addiction so that you can decide on the best treatment and detox options in London.

What is rehab?

Rehab aims to help individuals live meaningful lives free from addictive substances by guiding them through detox and a programme of holistic therapy in a supportive and compassionate environment. Many therapists working in addiction centres have been through an addiction (such as drug addiction, alcohol addiction or gambling) and can use their knowledge and expertise to provide support for you on your journey to recovery.

Medical professionals will assist you to withdraw from an addictive substance cautiously and may recommend a medical detox, while therapists are on-hand to establish the underlying reasons for addiction and provide important care in the form of private and group therapy.

A man and woman talking to a counsellor

A high-quality rehabilitation programme will also provide an aftercare service in order to help keep you free from addiction after your programme has ended. Each centre has its benefits, but UKAT patients have automatic access to our Alumni network, helping them continue to build strong support mechanisms once their time at a treatment centre has concluded.

Is rehab free?

Some free addiction services are NHS funded and provide an alternative to treatment at a private clinic. Charities such as Turning Point offer a small number of beds for residential care, but the vast majority of free treatment takes the form of outpatient care, group counselling and, in severe cases, detox programmes. All free services are accessible through self-referral.

Free addiction treatment services in Havering

WDP 

Address: Ballard Chambers, 26 High Street, Romford RM1 1HR, London
Number: 01708 747 614
Web Address: https://www.wdp.org.uk/

Alcoholics Anonymous, Romford Step

Address: Salvation Army, 49 High Street, RM1 1JJ, London
Number: 01245 256 147
Web Address: https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/AA-Meetings/Find-a-Meeting/havering

The downside to free services

Private treatment offers an immediate and proactive approach to recovery from addiction and gives you the choice of inpatient and outpatient programmes. In contrast, free services can take weeks before you are offered an appointment for an assessment and outpatient programmes are often the only choice that’s on offer, due to limited funding.

Types of addiction treatment and rehab programmes in Havering

There are several treatment options local to Havering, and each service has its benefits. Private treatment centres offer quick access to inpatient rehab services, while outpatient programmes (day rehab services) are available through NHS funding.

Outpatient addiction treatment (day rehab)

Each patient lives at home when receiving outpatient treatment, and they only visit the rehab premises when they have a scheduled treatment session. This kind of treatment makes up the majority of NHS funded rehabilitation services. In contrast, some private treatment centres offer both inpatient and outpatient treatment programmes, as each service comes with its own benefits.

Pros of outpatient treatment
  • Flexible for those that have childcare and work commitments
  • You can remain in control of your home routine
  • Cheaper than private care
Cons of outpatient treatment
  • Not ideal for those with severe addiction
  • People may be referred to a clinic far from home
  • Recovery may be affected by life distractions
  • Takes longer to complete
  • Does not guarantee a safe space to stay during detox
  • Does not guarantee a dedicated therapist
  • Not able to share the experience with like-minded residents

Inpatient rehab

Also known as residential rehab, inpatient addiction treatments help you to reach sobriety by providing a safe and comfortable environment to live at the rehab premises. Patients are constantly supported and cared for by on-site professionals and can focus all their attention on living a life free from addictive substances, without external distractions.

How does residential (inpatient) rehab work?

Understanding the process of residential rehab is key when deciding if it’s the best treatment option for you. The following will help you understand what to expect from inpatient rehab treatments.

Admissions

A GP can refer you to a specialist once they have assessed your specific circumstances, and this is the first step toward accessing free addiction treatment. Unfortunately, it can often take a few weeks to hear back with a scheduled appointment and this delay can put you or your loved ones at further risk.

Private treatment is a much faster option and you can expect to be at a specialised facility within just 24 hours of getting in touch. If you have any questions about your treatment, a licensed psychiatrist will be on-hand to provide support and explain the rehabilitation process.

Every treatment centre operates under its own set of rules, but we’ve created this list of essential items that should be taken to your rehab:

We recommend that you bring:

  • Toiletries
  • Nightwear
  • Exercise gear
  • Comfortable clothes
  • Outdoor clothes
  • Medication
  • Umbrella
  • Pictures
  • Mobile phone
  • iPod or radio
  • Laptop

You may be limited to how often you can use your laptop and mobile phone during treatment, to increase your chances of recovery.
The following items are usually not permitted:

  • Illicit alcohol or drugs
  • Any form of weapon or dangerous object
  • Sharp objects such as knives, scissors, needles, and razor blades
  • Non-prescribed medication
  • Aerosols or perfume
  • Mouthwash with alcohol contents
Medical detox

Drug and alcohol detox describe dedicating time for your body to rid itself of a harmful substance. If there are high levels of an addictive substance present in your bloodstream, then a medical professional might decide there is a requirement for a medically-assisted detox. Specialised detox medication is used to wean you off a substance gradually, because suddenly decreasing the volume of an addictive substance can cause a shock to the body, which is lethal in severe cases. Weaning off a substance slowly reduces any withdrawal symptoms and ensures you are as comfortable as possible.

Rehab programme

12-step programmes, one-to-one-therapy, group therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) are just some of the treatment options available as part of rehab, and many centres offer a range of recovery approaches.

Choosing the right programme

Person-centred treatment built around each individual’s needs should be the focus of any good rehab, and an inclusive atmosphere should be promoted in each therapy session and treatment option. Medical staff ought to be on-hand to address any concerns that you have, and a dual diagnosis option made available to help provide treatment for anyone entering rehab with a compound disorder. Any competent rehab programme will provide the option for group, individual and family therapy as part of their treatment.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) provides a compulsory rating system for every rehab treatment centre in the UK and you can search for the rating of your centre of choice on their website. This will help you decide if a specific rehabilitation centre is equipped to provide you with the necessary level of care, as the CQC rating is a testament to how safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led a clinic.

Each of UKAT’s treatment centres have been accredited with
a ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ CQC rating.

Family support programmes

It’s common for the friends and family of someone addicted to drugs and alcohol to be wholly affected by the situation. The behavioural aspects of addiction can often be the hardest and most apparent for a family to deal with, so a supportive rehabilitation centre will offer family therapy sessions to encourage everyone to make positive changes together.

How long does rehab last?

A rehab programme will commonly last between four and twelve weeks, but longer programmes are a more effective solution for long-term recovery. If a person spends longer in treatment, they are more likely to maintain a life free from substance abuse once they have left. For this reason, we recommend choosing a treatment programme that is at least eight weeks, so that you have ample time to adjust to the detox process and build strong relationships with your peers at the rehab centre. Many people who book into rehab for a short time insist on extending their stay, to ensure the greatest long-term success.

The benefits of residential rehab

  • Removing you from any temptations and life distractions
  • On-hand medical specialists and support staff
  • Opportunity to meet and share experiences with like-minded residents
  • Luxurious and comfortable grounds to stay in during your detox
  • Schedule and meals set up for you, giving you time to focus on recovery
  • Immersive aftercare programme

What happens after rehab?

The process of recovery continues long after you have left the rehab clinic, and aftercare is a valuable tool during the ongoing journey to a life free from addiction.

Aftercare programmes

Free aftercare is an important part of any high-quality residential programme, as it’s important to remain well-connected and active in the community after treatment has ended. If you complete treatment at UKAT, you are automatically enrolled in our Alumni community, where regular events and activities help you stay committed to long-term recovery.

Support groups

Addiction support groups focus on substance abuse, and they provide free support for anyone suffering or recovering from addiction. Groups are separated into specific types of addiction so that members can concentrate on their particular issues, and build connections with others who share their experiences.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Cocaine Anonymous (CA) and SMART recovery are all free of charge and can be attended after your addiction treatment. They offer an invaluable environment in which to socialise, support others and share your experiences.

Long term recovery from addiction

Maintaining a life free from the use of addictive substances requires tremendous dedication and focus on the techniques you learned during rehab and therapy. Stepping back into a life beyond rehab, where drugs, alcohol and other temptations are readily available is not easy, and those in early recovery are the most vulnerable to these triggers. Aftercare services offer an invaluable resource that should be accessed in order to live a life in recovery, which UKAT will ensure is always available.

Frequently asked questions

Are rehabs open in London during the Coronavirus outbreak?
Rehabilitation centres are operating during the Coronavirus outbreak, as healthcare facilities are essential businesses. This includes private rehab clinics in London, provided they follow the safety regulations implemented by the government.

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Does free alcohol rehab in London exist?
There are a number of free clinics in London which can help you with alcohol or drug abuse. However, there are no inpatient options. Rehabilitation centres are not free, so for residential rehab your best option is to opt for private treatment.

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How do I pay for rehab?
A deposit will be accepted at the beginning of the process and full payment taken a few days later, once you have started your programme.

Many private rehabilitation companies, including UKAT, accept BUPA insurance. However, be sure to check with your insurance company that your claim is covered.

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Can I get funding through the NHS?
Although funding through the NHS is available, it can be a lengthy and emotional process and many applications are turned down.

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Can you force someone to go to rehab?
You cannot force someone to go into rehab; it must be their choice. However, you can organise an intervention if you are worried about someone. This involves sitting and talking to your loved one with the help of a professional, in the hope they will listen and follow your advice.

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Which drug addictions can be treated in rehab?
Addictions to any of the following drugs can be treated in a rehabilitation clinic: cocaine rehab, crack cocaine rehab, heroin rehab, cannabis rehab, ecstasy rehab and prescription drugs rehab, including benzodiazepines rehab and opiates rehab.

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How long should I go to rehab for?
The recommended duration of rehab depends on the severity of your addiction and you will be advised by a professional during your admissions process.

The longer the length of stay in rehab the higher the success rate for staying sober, as you spend more quality time in therapy and in a sober environment, away from temptation.

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Is rehab confidential?
If you seek treatment through the NHS, the referral will sit on your medical records. However, employers cannot access these records unless under specific circumstances. So, there is a limited chance of them finding out.

Private rehabilitation is completely confidential and does not sit on your medical records.

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Can I visit a loved one during rehab?
You can visit your loved one for an hour every Sunday at our private centres. However, to prevent the spread of Covid-19 you will not be permitted to visit loved ones during the lockdown.

Family support groups take place every week at each of our centres and anyone who has a close connection to the patient can join. Not all rehabilitation centres offer this option, so this needs to be checked on their website.

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