SIAS hosts Unity Day to showcase recovery support and partnership working in Solihull

The Solihull Integrated Addiction Services (SIAS) recently held a Unity Day, highlighting a wide range of recovery programmes and effective partnership working across the borough.

The event, held on 19 March, brought together over 40 community organisations from related support sectors, to deliver a dynamic multi-agency networking and partnership event.

It was opened by Steve Scrimshaw, head of services at Birmingham & Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust.

Peer support workers from SIAS shared their own inspiring lived experience recovery journeys throughout the day, which included powerful evidence of the success of SIAS DayHab, the only recovery programme of its type in Solihull where participants can live at home.

The NHS Liver Bus was also onsite for free testing throughout the day.

During her visit, the Mayor met staff and service users and learnt more about the wide range of recovery support available to individuals and families affected by drug and alcohol use.

The visit provided an opportunity to highlight the life-changing work taking place at SIAS and the importance of accessible, compassionate care.

Mark Pemberton, manager - recovery and engagement at SIAS said: “Our Unity Day was about bringing people together - services, partners and the community - to strengthen the support network around recovery.

“We were delighted the mayor could join us, see our work in action, and engage with some of our service users who show that long-term recovery is possible.

“Issues with substance misuse can affect anyone. Harmful patterns can start gradually and become a problem before people realise.

“The SIAS service is totally confidential. You can self-refer and sometimes a single conversation is enough to make a difference and reset unhealthy habits.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with drugs and alcohol, contact SIAS for free and confidential advice on 0121 301 4141 or visit their website,