A rehab clinic in Sutton

A guide to drug and alcohol rehab in Sutton, London

Recovering from addiction is a challenging process, but there are many ways to obtain addiction treatment across London. The following is a guide we’ve put together to explain the options for rehab for drug and alcohol addiction, so you can use it to make the best decision for your treatment and detox, based on availability in Sutton.

What is rehab?

Rehab provides a safe environment in which anyone suffering from addiction can change their lifestyle through detox and holistic therapy. It will introduce anyone who is suffering from a drug addiction, alcohol addiction or a behavioural addiction such as gambling, to those who have been through similar experiences and will use their training and knowledge to assist them through recovery.
During treatment, you can safely withdraw from a substance and get therapy to treat the underlying cause of their addiction. Medical professionals will provide constant support and care, as well as assess the need for a medical detox.
A man and woman talking to a counsellor

Aftercare programmes are available to help keep people sober after their treatment has concluded. UKAT patients also get automatic access to our Alumni Community, but all clinics have their own merits and benefits.

Is rehab free?

The NHS provides free addiction treatment services in the form of outpatient care and group counselling. In severe cases only, the NHS offers access to a detox programme. All of these services are accessed through self-referral. Although spaces are limited, charities such as Turning Point offer some beds for residential care.

Free addiction treatment services in Sutton

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

Inspire

Address: Orion House, 19 Cedar Road, Sutton, SM2 5JG
Number: 020 8773 9393
Web Address: https://cranstoun.org/help-and-advice/alcohol-other-drugs/inspire-sutton/

Sutton DART

Web Address: https://www.swlstg.nhs.uk/our-services/find-a-service/service/sutton-drug-and-alcohol-recovery-team

The downside to free services

There is limited government funding for free rehabilitation services, and they can sometimes take weeks to access. The vast majority of free treatment exists as an outpatient programme (day rehab), because there are only a small number of residential spaces available. You also have no choice over which clinic you are sent to, although they will try to cater to your area as much as possible.
Private treatment is far faster, you can select which clinic you would like to reside at and there are inpatient (residential) programmes available at specialised treatment centres.

Types of addiction treatment and rehab programmes in Sutton

There is a range of different kinds of treatments available in Sutton. Free treatment options include outpatient programmes and day rehab services, whereas inpatient programmes are readily available at private rehab treatment centres. It’s important to understand the benefits of each service.

Outpatient addiction treatment (day rehab)

When taking part in an outpatient programme, the person suffering from addiction is required to visit the rehabilitation premises for each scheduled treatment. The NHS has funding for outpatient programmes, but some private clinics also offer them.

These are some considerations to make when deciding if an outpatient programme is the right treatment for you:

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
  • Take 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

Inpatient addiction rehab is commonly referred to as residential rehab. It provides a comfortable and stable environment in which to begin your addiction treatment. Patients live at the rehabilitation premises, which gives them the opportunity to live with those going through similar experiences and focus all their attention on recovery.
There is consistent access to professional care throughout the treatment process at a private rehab.

How does residential (inpatient) rehab work?

The following will help you to understand what to expect from residential rehab and decide if it is a treatment option you’d like to consider.

Admissions

To be admitted for free treatment, you must first visit your GP. They can offer a referral to see a specialist, but it can take a few weeks to hear back with a scheduled appointment.

On the contrary, seeking private treatment offers a more immediate solution. It is possible to be admitted to a private facility only 24 hours after first making contact. Your best treatment options will be explained by a licensed psychiatrist on arrival, and any questions you have about the process will be answered.

Treatment centres all carry their own set of rules, but we’ve created this comprehensive guide to what we advise should be packed for your treatment.

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

A rehabilitation clinic will strive to provide a safe and comfortable environment for your body to rid itself of any harmful substance. This is called an alcohol detox, or drug detox. If there are high levels of an addictive substance in a person’s bloodstream, then a medical professional might recommend the use of specialised detox medication in order to safely reduce the symptoms of withdrawal and make you as comfortable as possible. This is because a sudden decrease in the use of an addiction substance can cause a shock to the body that can be lethal in severe cases.

Rehab programme

Lots of rehab centres offer a range of different recovery approaches, because everyone has success with different treatment options. Some of the treatments available include 12-step programmes, one-to-one therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

Choosing the right programme

A good rehab centre will provide a mix of both private and group therapy sessions. An inclusive atmosphere should ensure that every individual’s personal and religious beliefs are catered for. Clinics with a dual diagnosis option can help those with compound disorders, and provide the best care for anyone handling a psychological condition in tandem with their addiction.

There is a rating system provided by the Care Quality Commission that can be used by potential patients to assess how safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led a clinic is. Each of UKAT’s CQC ratings are ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’. You should be able to check a rehabilitation centre’s rating by searching on their website.

Family support programmes

Addiction can filter through the people close to the person abusing a substance and have an impact on them as well. Whether you are addicted to alcohol, drugs or another substance or behaviour, those who are close to you may have feelings they’d like to get off their chest to support you through recovery or reduce any animosity that may have been caused before you sought rehab.

A supportive rehab will offer family sessions so that everyone is empowered to make positive changes as a functioning family unit.

How long does rehab last?

Most rehabilitation programmes last between four and twelve weeks, but the more time you spend in treatment, the more likely you are to remain in recovery after you have left.
Rehab is a big change in routine, and so it can be difficult to adjust after only a few weeks. In order to form strong friendships and adapt to a life without addictive substances, we recommend a programme longer than eight weeks.

The benefits of residential rehab

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

What happens after rehab?

Even after your last day at the treatment centre, recovery is ongoing. Aftercare is a very important part of the recovery journey.

Aftercare programmes

Aftercare is often provided once treatment at a residential rehab centre is completed. This takes the form of group and private therapy, as well as access to support groups.
UKAT automatically enrols anyone who completes treatment at our centres into the Alumni community. This allows you to form and maintain strong connections and friendships in support of a clean and sober life. We also provide one-year free group therapy to anyone who will benefit from it after treatment is complete.

Support groups

It is advised to get involved in a support group as part of your aftercare.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and Cocaine Anonymous (CA) all provide a free, confidential support network for anyone who goes to their meetings. SMART recovery is a non-profit that also provides assistance to anyone seeking abstinence from addiction.

Long term recovery from addiction

Those who have recently left the treatment centre are the most susceptible to the stresses and triggers of the world beyond rehab, and it’s not uncommon to feel yourself slipping back into old routines. Remaining focused on sobriety amidst your regular routine requires dedication to the techniques learnt during rehab and therapy, so it’s important to make full use of the aftercare services available to you.

UKAT will be here to support you from the first phone call to aftercare to ensure you have the confidence to continue your recovery with ease.

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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