Solihull brings community together for service users to celebrate Christmas

Solihull Integrated Addiction Services (SIAS) hosted a community dinner on Christmas Day for service users who would otherwise have spent the day alone.

The event was held at the Welcome Change Community Centre and staffed by SIAS volunteers, with 40 service users in attendance for food, games and Christmas cheer. Transport was also provided for those who were struggling to attend.

Mark Pemberton, Service Manager for Recovery and Engagement at SIAS, who organised the event, said: “We were thrilled to be able to host this event in the heart of our community. Thank you to all our volunteers who made it happen; they cooked, carved, served and, most importantly, shared Christmas lunch with so many who may otherwise have faced a difficulday.” He added: “A big thank you also to Richard Rowe, Customer Care Manager of True North Servicet  Management Solutions in Solihull, whose very generous sponsorship enabled the event to take place, and to all others who contributed food and gifts.

“It was truly a day to remember and a reminder that giving is the best part of Christmas.”

SIAS is commissioned by Solihull Borough Council to deliver a free and confidential treatment and support service for anyone struggling with alcohol or drug misuse in the borough. It also supports others, including families and children, who may be affected by someone else’s addiction.

For more information, call the SIAS confidential helpline on 0121 301 4141 to speak to an experienced team member, or visit www.sias-solihull.org.uk

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