Frequently Asked Questions

Loved ones affected by addiction often face difficult questions about how to cope, where to get support and how to help someone they care about. Northstar Family Support Project provides free, confidential support for parents, partners, families and friends affected by someone’s drug or alcohol misuse.

If you are looking for immediate support, visit our Support page or learn more about our family support services.

We do not provide treatment or support services for individuals experiencing addiction themselves.

 

Help When Someone You Love Has an Addiction: Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if this service is right for me?

If someone else’s drug or alcohol use is affecting your life, you don’t have to face it alone. We support parents, partners, siblings, grandparents, friends and other loved ones.

Does my loved one need to be receiving treatment?

No. You can access our support whether or not your loved one is engaging with treatment or recovery services.

Is your support confidential?

Yes. We provide a confidential and non-judgemental space where you can talk openly about your experiences.

Is there a cost for the service?

No. All of our family support services are provided free of charge. If you have any questions about accessing support, our team will be happy to talk you through the process.

Is this support available for the person experiencing addiction?

Our service is specifically for family members, partners and loved ones who are affected by someone else’s drug or alcohol use. If you are looking for support with your own substance use, we can help point you towards organisations and services that are better suited to your needs.

Who can access your support?

Our service is available to anyone aged 18 or over who is affected by someone else’s drug or alcohol use. Whether that person is a partner, parent, child, sibling, other family member or close friend, you are welcome to contact us if their substance use is having a negative impact on your life.

Can I get support if my loved one is not ready to change?

Yes. You can access support even if the person using drugs or alcohol is not seeking help themselves. Our service focuses on supporting you, helping you understand your situation, and finding healthier ways to cope with the impact of someone else’s substance misuse.

What type of support do you provide?

We offer a range of supports including one-to-one family support, counselling referrals, peer support and wellbeing activities. Our aim is to help loved ones understand addiction, improve their wellbeing and feel less alone.

Can professionals refer someone to Northstar Family Support Project?

Yes. We welcome referrals from GPs, healthcare professionals, addiction services, community organisations and other agencies supporting individuals and families affected by substance misuse.

Professionals can contact us directly by email to discuss a referral or to find out more about the support we provide. We are happy to work alongside other services to ensure families and loved ones receive the support they need.

Address

Hopeful House

28 John Street

V94 K5N5 Limerick

Call Us

(061) 459 260
9am-5pm Monday -Friday

Get in touch

Opening Hours

Monday–Friday: 9am – 5pm

Evening appointments available upon request.

Premises

Hopeful House

28 John Street

Limerick

V94 K5N5

Ireland

Company Limited by Guarantee | Registered Charity number: 20074135