We are Plymouth's largest independent drug and alcohol charity.

We ARE Harbour

Supporting individuals with complex lives

Harbour's Impact in the last 12 months:

1,814

2,294

293

Brand new
referrals

Individuals
treated

Successful completions

Why Harbour Exists

We know that life can get complicated, and that making hard choices and significant changes can be difficult without support. For nearly 40 years, we have helped people realise that they are not alone.

Our vision is a world where every person is empowered to make positive changes and live a healthy, fulfilling life. We provide support to people who might also be experiencing homelessness, domestic abuse, sexual or gender-based violence and mental or physical health conditions, alongside problematic substance use.

You can get confidential advice by calling our friendly team on 01752 434343. We can signpost families, friends or anyone who needs advice around alcohol or drug use to relevant organisations. 

Harbour is also part of the Plymouth Alliance. The aim of the alliance is to coordinate a complex needs system which will enable people to be supported flexibly, receiving the right care, at the right time in the right place.


explore Harbour

We're here
when you need us

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

If you or someone you know needs urgent help or is in physical or psychological distress, call 111 for NHS medical advice. You can also call the Samaritans on 116 123. In an emergency, call 999.

WHERE ELSE TO GET HELP

Support comes in many forms, and knowing where to turn can make all the difference. Below is a curated list of trusted organisations providing information, advice, and support on substance use, mental health, family issues, and more.

National Information & Advice

If you’re seeking guidance on substance use or related concerns, these organisations offer reliable information and support nationwide:

FRANK (Talk to Frank) - Confidential drug and alcohol advice for all ages.
talktofrank.com | 0300 123 6600

Drinkaware - Tools and tips to help you understand and reduce alcohol consumption.
drinkaware.co.uk

NHS Drug and Alcohol Support - Official NHS guidance on addiction treatment and local services.
nhs.uk/live-well/addiction-support

DrugWise - Educational resources focused on drug safety and harm reduction.
drugwise.org.uk

Harm Reduction Coalition - Advocates for practical policies that reduce harms related to drug use.
harmreduction.org

Anti Stigma Network - Campaigning to end stigma around drug use and mental health challenges.
antistigmanetwork.com

Mental health & wellbeing

Mental health support is vital—these organisations provide compassionate help and guidance when you need it most:

Mind - Comprehensive mental health information and support services.
mind.org.uk | 0300 123 3393

Samaritans - Available 24/7 for anyone in emotional distress or crisis.
samaritans.org | 116 123

Cruse Bereavement Support - Assistance for those grieving the loss of a loved one.
cruse.org.uk | 0808 808 1677

Andy’s Man Club- Peer support groups where men can talk openly about mental health without stigma.
andysmanclub.co.uk

Man Down - Tailored mental health support and resources for men.
mandown.org

Domestic Abuse Support in Plymouth

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, these local services can provide immediate help and ongoing support:

Plymouth Domestic Abuse Services (PDAS) - Support including safety planning, advice, and criminal justice assistance. sanctuary-supported-living.co.uk | 01752 201700

FearFree (formerly Splitz Support Service) - Assistance for survivors of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and stalking. fearfree.org.uk | 0345 155 8206

Women’s Aid - National helpline and refuge services for survivors.
womensaid.org.uk | 0808 2000 247

Men’s Advice Line - Confidential support for male victims of domestic abuse.
mensadviceline.org.uk | 0808 801 0327

Respect Phoneline - Help for perpetrators wanting to change and concerned others.
respect.org.net | 0808 802 4040

Homelessness Support in Plymouth

For housing advice, homelessness prevention, and emergency accommodation support, these local services are here to help:

Plymouth City Council – Housing Options Service - Guidance on housing, homelessness prevention, and support eligibility. plymouth.gov.uk/housing | 01752 668000

Community Connections – Plymouth City Council - Specialist advice for rough sleepers and out-of-hours emergency support. plymouth.gov.uk/homeless-or-risk | 01752 668000 (out-of-hours)

Mutual Aid & Recovery Support

Mutual aid groups can provide vital peer support on the recovery journey. While we do not offer 12-step programmes ourselves, you may find these fellowships valuable. Each site offers meeting locators and information about how the groups work, with many providing online or phone-based support.


Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) - alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk

Cocaine Anonymous (CA) - cauk.org.uk

Narcotics Anonymous (NA) - ukna.org

SMART Recovery UK (Non-12-Step Alternative) - smartrecovery.org.uk

The Hub of Hope

The Hub of Hope is the UK’s largest mental health support directory, helping you find local and national services quickly and easily. It’s free, confidential, and available anytime.

Visit online: hubofhope.co.uk