Free, confidential support to help young people make informed choices
Inspire Young People provides free and confidential support for children and young people who are concerned about their alcohol or other drug use.
If you’re unsure about your own use, we’re here to help you understand what’s going on and make choices that are right for you. We can also support you if someone else’s drinking or drug use is affecting you.
Support
We offer one-to-one support for young people who are using substances wherever feels most comfortable. Our team can support with advice around vaping, alcohol or drugs.
Advice
Reliable harm reduction information and resources to keep you as safe as possible.
Workshops
We also offer targeted, educational workshops to local schools and colleges.
Outreach
Outreach and detached work around the area with frequent visits to other youth service organisations, schools and communities.
Direction
Advice and support for young people’s workers who are working with a young person who might use substances.
Explore support by substance
You can explore information and options based on the substance you’re using, helping you find the guidance that feels most relevant to you.
If the substance you’re looking for isn’t listed, we’re still here to help - just get in touch.
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Alcohol
Alcohol is the most widely used drug across the world, enjoyed by millions of people in various social settings. Despite its legal status and widespread acceptance, alcohol is a harmful substance and the risks of using it increase with excess consumption.
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Vapes
A vape is a device used for inhaling vapour which contains nicotine and flavouring. Some vapes contain THC, which have been found to contain other substances including synthetic cannabinoids and synthetic opioids, which can cause serious risks including overdose.
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Club and Party Drugs
Many of the same drugs can be found at house parties or raves at clubs, often referred to as 'Party Drugs'. They are normally used to enhance social experiences and intensify emotions or sensations. Common club drugs include: MDMA, Cocaine, GHB, Methamphetamine, LSD and Ketamine.
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Cannabis
Cannabis comes in many forms and it can be consumed in different ways. When smoked or inhaled, the effects start in minutes and last about an hour. When eaten, it can take up to an hour to feel anything and the effects can last much longer. Cannabis can make people feel relaxed, chatty or hungry, but it can also cause anxiety, paranoia, dizziness.
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Benzos
Benzodiazepines, commonly known as 'benzos', are often used for their mood-enhancing and analgesic effects. The most commonly used benzos are Valium (diazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam).
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Ketamine
Ketamine is safely used in several areas of human and veterinary medicine, but regular recreational use can cause severe psychological and physical effects, including feelings of dissociation and inability to feel pain or notice warning signs.
Want to talk to someone about making a change?
Our services are open and inclusive, striving to support anyone no matter your background or needs.
Frequently asked questions
We understand you may have questions about our support. Below, we've answered some of the most frequently asked questions to help you.
Is Inspire’s alcohol and drug support for young people really free to access?
Yes. All of our alcohol and drug support for young people in West Northamptonshire is completely free. You don’t need a referral, a GP appointment or parental permission to talk to us. Whether you're looking for alcohol support, help with drugs, or advice about someone else’s use, everything we offer is free, confidential and designed to make you feel safe.
Can I get support even if I’m not sure what’s going on with my alcohol or drug use?
Absolutely. Many young people come to us because they’re unsure about their use or want to understand things better. We offer space to talk, reliable information, and harm‑reduction advice to help you make informed choices. You don’t need to have answers before reaching out, that’s what we’re here for.
Where can I access alcohol and drug help near me in West Northamptonshire?
You can access alcohol and drug help near you through Inspire’s youth team across West Northamptonshire. Our goal is to make support easy to reach wherever you are in Northampton, Daventry or the surrounding areas.
Do you offer one‑to‑one support for young people who want help with drugs or alcohol?
Yes. We offer personalised, one‑to‑one alcohol and drug support that fits your needs and comfort level. We’ll listen, help you explore your goals and give you practical tools to stay safe.
Can I get support if someone else’s drinking or drug use is affecting me?
Definitely. Inspire provides alcohol and drug support not only for young people who use substances, but also for those affected by someone else’s use. If a friend, parent, sibling or partner’s behaviour is impacting you, we’re here to offer guidance, emotional support and information to help you feel safer and more supported.
Still have questions?
Many people here have been on the same path as you and are happy to answer any other questions you have. Please get in touch to speak to a member of our friendly Inspire Young People team.