SLCVO Blog 28 November
- joford4
- 6 days ago
- 6 min read
This week’s blog takes a closer look at two recent forums hosted by SLCVO: the Skye and Lochalsh Community Wellbeing and Support Forum on 19 November, and the Skye and Lochalsh Drug and Alcohol Forum on 27 November.
The Skye and Lochalsh Community Wellbeing and Support Forum is part of the Skye and Lochalsh Health, Wellbeing, Welfare and Social Care (HWWS) Collaboration, led by SLCVO. This forum provides a collaborative space for community groups, third sector organisations, and public sector partners to share ideas, propose projects, and help shape the future of health, wellbeing, social care, and welfare in our communities.
The forum held on 19 November focused on adult services and brought together 11 participants representing 10 third sector organisations. Discussions covered a range of key topics, including:
Drug & Alcohol Support Gaps
The meeting highlighted a serious lack of immediate help for individuals in crisis due to addiction. Currently, most support relies on voluntary efforts, such as those provided by the Keys Project and Living Hope, and while AA meetings are available locally, options for urgent intervention remain limited. A new text-based support service was mentioned, but attendees agreed that a dedicated, accessible detox and crisis service is urgently needed. Jo Ford committed to liaising with the local Drug and alcohol Forum to identify pathways of support. See later in Blog
Community Needs & Practical Support
Transport emerged as a critical barrier for accessing appointments and future outreach hubs, particularly in remote areas. Participants also noted the importance of practical help, such as prescription collection and assistance for people with sight loss. Connecting Carers shared details of their Essentials Fund, which provides financial support for unpaid carers struggling with food, energy costs, and travel expenses—an invaluable resource for those facing hardship.
For more information visit https://connectingcarers.org.uk/what-we-do/funding-availability/
Menopause Support
The group discussed the growing need for menopause-related support in the community. Skye Lochalsh Mental Health Association has already launched monthly sessions, offering a safe space for discussion and wellbeing activities. Plans include inviting guest speakers to cover topics such as joint pain and herbal remedies. Jo Ford will compile and share a comprehensive list of menopause resources before the end of the year to ensure wider awareness and access.
Exercise & Falls Prevention
Gentle exercise opportunities remain scarce in the area, despite their importance for older adults and those with health conditions. While some peer support groups exist, the consensus was that more structured classes are needed. Jo Ford noted that there will be taser session at some of the Community Outreach hubs by MySelf Management.
Visit MySelf Management website to see what they have on locally https://www.myself-management.org/
Forum Participants 19 November
Highland BlindCraft & Sensory Services
Providing employment opportunities and essential support for people with sight loss. Services include low vision assessments, assistive technology advice, and peer support groups.
Website: www.highlandblindcraft.co.uk
Ross-shire, Skye & Lochalsh Women’s Aid
Offering refuge accommodation, outreach support, and safety planning for women and children affected by domestic abuse.
Website: www.rosswa.co.uk
Skye & Lochalsh Mental Health Association
A lifeline for those living with mental ill health. Drop-in centres in Portree and Kyle provide a welcoming space and practical support.
Change Mental Health
National charity delivering non-clinical, person-centred mental health support. Community link workers operate across Skye and Highland.
Mikeysline
Suicide prevention and mental health support via text, WhatsApp, Messenger, and face-to-face sessions at The Hive.
Website: www.mikeysline.co.uk
Connecting Carers
Supporting unpaid carers with advice, wellbeing services, and grants for essentials.
Highland Hospice
Providing palliative care and support for families across the Highlands. Services include Hospice-at-Home and a 24/7 helpline.
Website: www.highlandhospice.org
Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association
Helping tenants with housing, energy advice, and welfare support. Outreach sessions run monthly in Kyle and Broadford.
Community Contacts (Carr Gomm)
Independent advice on Self-Directed Support, helping people design and manage their own care.
Skye & Lochalsh Drug and Alcohol Forum
The Skye and Lochalsh Drug and Alcohol Forum met on 27 November, bringing together youth development officers, Police Scotland, Planet Youth, and Skye & Lochalsh Mental Health Association to discuss emerging issues.
Growing use of nicotine pouches among teenagers
A key concern was the growing use of nicotine pouches among teenagers. These small, tobacco-free products are marketed as a cleaner alternative to smoking or vaping, but local groups report a sharp rise in use, with discarded pouches often found in play areas and sports pitches. Flavoured options, easy online access, and the perception that they are “safer” have fuelled this trend. Despite lacking smoke or vapor, nicotine pouches deliver high doses of nicotine—posing serious risks to adolescent brain development, including memory, attention, and impulse control. Experts warn that early use can lead to long-term addiction and may act as a gateway to smoking or vaping. With limited regulation and age checks, this growing trend is a health risk we cannot ignore.
Learn more: ASH Scotland – Nicotine Pouches Briefing https://ashscotland.org.uk/briefing/nicotine-pouches/
Local Campaigns for Greater Impact
During the discussion, members questioned whether national and regional campaigns truly resonate in our area. The consensus was that locally targeted initiatives, particularly around issues like drug and alcohol use, would have a far greater impact—especially among younger people. Timing was also highlighted as crucial, with spring and summer identified as the best periods for outreach when young people spend more time outdoors. To make this happen, the group agreed to revisit the idea in spring next year and explore how they can collaborate with Community Outreach Hubs to deliver campaigns with a strong local focus and real community engagement.
Community Spotlight: Plockton’s Planet Youth Action Group
At the recent Skye and Lochalsh Drug and Alcohol Forum, another important discussion focused on the Plockton Community Action Group, part of the wider Planet Youth initiative. This evidence-based program aims to improve the health and wellbeing of children and young people by reducing risk factors and strengthening protective factors in local communities.
The Plockton Community Action Group brings together parents, carers, teachers, youth workers, health professionals, and local organizations to create practical solutions that address issues such as substance use, bullying, mental health challenges, and risky behaviours. Using data gathered from local pupils, the group develops an action plan with clear goals—such as improving access to activities, reducing bullying, and supporting mental health resilience.
Why get involved? If you’re a parent, educator, youth worker, or simply passionate about making a difference, your voice matters. Community Action Groups thrive on collaboration, and everyone has a role to play in shaping a healthier future for young people.
Contact for Plockton and Lochaber areas: Vicki Clark – victoria.clark5@nhs.scotFor more details about Planet Youth and how you can join a Community Action Group, visit:Planet Youth Highland https://linktr.ee/planetyouthinhighland
With You Anywhere
Following discussions at the Skye and Lochalsh Community Wellbeing and Support Forum, the NHS Highland ‘With You Anywhere’ service was highlighted as a free, confidential support for individuals across Highland who are dealing with drug and alcohol issues.
With you anywhere is the Highland Hub from We Are With You service provides free, confidential, and non-judgmental support for anyone aged 16 and over living in the Highlands. Whether you want advice, ongoing support, or help for a loved one, their team of expert recovery workers is ready to listen and guide you.
What Is It For?
The Highland Hub is designed for:
People who want to cut down, use more safely, or stop using drugs or alcohol.
Anyone worried about a loved one’s substance use.
Families seeking practical advice and emotional support.
The service also connects individuals to additional resources such as mental health support, housing advice, and benefits guidance.
How to Access Support
You don’t need a referral—just reach out. Support is available online, by phone, video call, or webchat, making it easy to get help wherever you are in the Highlands. Appointments can be arranged during weekdays and, if needed, evenings and weekends.
Opening Hours:Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (with flexibility for evenings/weekends)
Contact Details
Email: highlandanywhere@wearewithyou.org.ukPhone: 0808 168 0860 (Free from landlines and mobiles)Website: We Are With You Highland Hub
Other Drug and Alcohol Support Resources You Should Know About
When it comes to tackling substance use and supporting mental health, there are many trusted organisations offering help, advice, and resources. Here’s a quick guide to some of the most valuable services available:
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
AA provides free, confidential support for anyone struggling with alcohol addiction.📞 Helpline: 0800 9177 650📧 Email: help@aamail.org🌐 Website: www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk
Alcohol Focus Scotland
Scotland’s national alcohol charity, providing information and resources for individuals, families, and communities.🌐 Visit Alcohol Focus Scotland
FRANK
Honest advice and information about drugs, including how to stay safe.📞 Helpline: 0300 123 6600🌐 Talk to FRANK
Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs
A national charity supporting anyone affected by someone else’s alcohol or drug use.🌐 Visit SFAD
Highland Substance Awareness Toolkit
An online library with information on substances, including tobacco, alcohol, drugs, and blood-borne viruses.🌐 Explore the Toolkit
NHS Highland Health Improvement Training
Free online courses for professionals and volunteers, including Alcohol Brief Interventions and Suicide Prevention.🌐 Health Improvement Training
NHS Highland Drug and Alcohol Recovery
Support for recovery and treatment options across Highland.🌐 Drug and Alcohol Recovery
Scottish Drug Forum E-Learning
Free online training on drug awareness, new psychoactive substances, and more.🌐 SDF Training
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