A rehab clinic in Newham

A guide to drug and alcohol rehab in Newham, London

Getting help for drug or alcohol addiction may feel overwhelming but deciding on the best treatment option can make all the difference in helping you to maintain long-term sobriety. There are a few options available in the Newham area, so UKAT has put together the following guide so you can make an informed decision when seeking services in London.

What is rehab?

Drug and alcohol rehab services offer a safe space for people to detox from substances, monitored by medical professionals and cared for by clinical staff. A programme of holistic therapeutic treatment options will help people reflect on their lives and learn new ways of coping. This might include group or individual activities alongside peers who are experiencing the same thing and can share similar experiences.

Clinical teams made up of doctors, nurses, therapists and support workers with lived experience of addiction will be on-hand to ensure you have a positive experience throughout your journey. You will also be encouraged to share stories so that you can build bonds with others and support each other to stay sober once you leave. Many people report that the friends they make in rehab become an important part of their lives going forward.

A man and woman talking to a counsellor

After rehab, you will need ongoing access to information and communication with peers and staff, so aftercare packages will be available. With UKAT, you will get instant access to the exclusive Alumni community, which organises events and gatherings with others in recovery, in addition to providing online communication for networking and resource sharing.

Is rehab free?

Some rehab is free but other services you will have to pay for. The NHS provides funding for outpatient services which are accessible via referral from your GP. Inpatient or residential treatment programmes are privately funded, meaning that you will need to find the money to pay for them or access them through private insurance. If you are in need of residential services and cannot pay, charities such as Turning Point may be able to help.

Free addiction treatment services in Newham

The following are free drug and alcohol services available in the Newham area.

CGL Newham Rise (Adults Substance Misuse Service)

Number: 0800 652 3879
Web Address: https://www.newham.gov.uk/health-adult-social-care/drugs-alcohol/1

Rise

Number: 02074 070 700
Web Address: https://www.changegrowlive.org/rise-newham/beckton-road

The downside to free services

As you are likely aware, government cutbacks have meant that addiction treatment is much more restricted than it used to be, so you may be placed on a waiting list before you can get in. There may also be limitations placed on the times, frequency or types of activities available, which some people find frustrating. Many feel they would benefit more from residential (inpatient) services; however, outpatient treatment may be the only accessible option.

If you have access to private insurance or funds for private treatment, you can be admitted whenever and wherever you like. You will be prepared a private room and receive full room and board included in the price. A specialist will meet you on arrival to help plan your treatment programme to find the right programme combination which works for you.

Types of addiction treatment and rehab programmes in Newham

If you are looking for addiction treatment in the Newham area, there are several options available which you will need to consider.

Outpatient addiction treatment (day rehab)

The term ‘day rehab’ describes a programme of activities including groups and medical support accessed at a day clinic in your local area. You will not be required to stay at the clinic, and you travel to allocated sessions and appointments.

Pros of outpatient treatment
  • Can fit around other roles and responsibilities you may have
  • NHS funding available
  • Flexible access
Cons of outpatient treatment
  • Not as intense as inpatient care
  • Less freedom to choose programme features
  • More distractions in daily life
  • No guaranteed one-on-one therapy

Inpatient rehab

Conversely, attending residential rehab means that you will need to stay in a private facility whilst you complete your treatment programme. Such programmes may be seen as more intense as they involve 24-hour care and limited distractions. Some people enjoy the opportunity to have a break from the triggers in their normal life. Inpatient services give people a chance to step back and reflect on their lives from the comfort of a safe and supported environment.

How does residential (inpatient) rehab work?

Every rehab treatment centre is different. You can find more information by accessing the individual centre website or contacting an adviser. The following guidance gives general advice for choosing a rehab programme.

Admissions

Being admitted to an NHS funded day rehab requires referral from your GP, and assessment from a drug, alcohol or behavioural addiction specialist. This can take many weeks to get an appointment due to high demand on services.

Admission to private treatment, on the other hand, gives you a lot more freedom to choose when and where you would like to go. From 24-hours after your first call, a private room will be made available and you will be greeted by a professional on arrival to discuss your programme.

The following is a rough guide to what you should pack for rehab but some rules may vary between centres.

Items you might like to bring:

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

Mobile phones and laptops are often restricted or not allowed in some treatment facilities.

The following items are not allowed:

  • 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

For some people, physical dependence on a substance means that withdrawing safely requires medical planning and supervision. A medical detox will start with a consultation and the prescription of medication to slowly ease your body off any addictive substances and reduce withdrawal symptoms. You will receive ongoing support to ensure you are as comfortable as possible before being invited to engage in the rest of the programme, which will focus on your mindset towards that substance and helping you cope with recovery.

Rehab programme

Not all rehab programmes are the same. There are a lot of different approaches to choose from. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a popular model, however, this kind of treatment does not work for everyone. Some people prefer a 12-step programme whereas others choose psychotherapy. It is important to work out what will be best for you and no one else. If you have any concerns or questions, it may be best to contact the clinic directly for more information.

Choosing the right programme

Religious or cultural diversity, existing health conditions and disability are all part of the rich tapestry of life and none of these differences should compromise the quality of your treatment. If you have any needs which require adjustments to be made in advance, it is advisable to let your centre know before arrival.

The term ‘dual-diagnosis’ is popular nowadays; it means to have addictive behaviours and mental illness at the same time. This is nothing to be ashamed of and is very common as the triggers which worsen both conditions are usually the same. If you have any specific needs relating to mental illness, it is important you let your treatment centre know in advance.

If you would like to check out the inspection quality of your chosen centre you can access the breakdown on their CQC page.

Family support programmes

Families are often adversely impacted by addiction, so engaging them in treatment can help to ensure long term abstinence from substances. Programmes may include workshops, groups or information support.

How long does rehab last?

Rehab programmes often vary between four and twelve weeks. However, eight weeks is recommended as a minimum, as the longer you stay at rehab the more likely you are to remain in recovery when you leave.

The benefits of residential rehab

  • A chance to break from a triggering environment
  • Professionals on-hand to help you to feel safe
  • Peer support
  • High-quality living arrangements
  • Aftercare programmes

What happens after rehab?

After rehab you will return to your normal life, but you will likely need support from friends, family and professionals to put your new learning into practice. Staying in touch with the people you have shared your rehab experience with can be essential in making sure that you avoid temptation. There are also a number of aftercare options available.

Aftercare programmes

UKAT offers group therapy for up to a year after discharge and exclusive access to the Alumni community – a network of past clients who support each other to stay sober through organised events. Most rehab treatment programmes will offer their own aftercare support.

Support groups

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Cocaine Anonymous (CA) and SMART Recovery are examples of support groups you can access independently for free and confidential peer support for long-term recovery.

Long term recovery from addiction

It is generally understood that recovery from addiction is a long road, but no one says you have to travel alone. Finding the right programme for you may take time, but once you’ve discovered what works, you will never forget it and it will change your life immensely. It is important not to compare yourself to others, as some people may sail through whereas others need to start again. Your journey is individual and UKAT will always be here to support you.

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.

Go back to the top

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.

Go back to the top

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.

Go back to the top

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.

Go back to the top

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.

Go back to the top

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.

Go back to the top

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.

Go back to the top

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.

Go back to the top

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.

Go back to the top