STARS - Short Term Alcohol Reduction Service

What to expect

STARS is a project run by Change Grow Live Drug and Alcohol Service Cambridgeshire (CGL). It provides one-to-one alcohol reduction support for anyone aged 18+ living within Cambridgeshire, or registered to a GP within Cambridgeshire. Participants in the programme have seen an average reduction in weekly units from start to finish of over 60%.

The program consists of an assessment, followed by six structured support sessions. These sessions are a discreet, safe space where support can be focused completely around the individual. Participants are provided with a book where they can write down their ideas, goals and plans, giving them the chance to reflect on progress, and find what does and does not work for them. Through the sessions individuals will be supported to explore triggers, distraction techniques, recovery capital, navigating social situations, the cycle of change, and more.

Sessions can be spaced out weekly, bi- weekly, or once every three weeks. Appointments can be done face-to-face or virtually. There may also be the option to meet within a GP surgery, depending on which GP participants are registered with.

Quotes from participants

"It was nice to have someone to talk to who was so understanding and non judgemental"

"I liked that the conversations focused on my experiences and challenging situations, but also experiences shared by the CGL staff who were able to relate."

More information

STARS is only eligible for those who are not physically dependant on alcohol, as it is a short term intervention. Other CGL services are available for those who are physically dependent. Find out more about CGL on this webpage.

To sign up for STARS or any other CGL service fill in the referral form on this page of the CGL website. You can also contact the team by phoning 0300 5550101 (option 1) or emailing [email protected].

It is free to take part in the STARS programme.