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Help for young people

Help for young people

On this page you will find information on the support available for children, young people and their families.

To get started, simply view the service information below, or watch our service summary videos.

If you need urgent support, including help in a crisis, see our Useful contacts page.

Treatment Options

CGL Targeted and Specialist Services for Young People

CGL (Change Grow Live) offers two types of support for young people in Derbyshire up to age 18 who may be affected by alcohol or drug use: Targeted and Specialist services. Both are welcoming, confidential and focused on helping you stay safe and make the choices that are right for you.

Targeted Service - Information, Education & Early Support

The Targeted Service is for young people who want advice or information about drugs and alcohol, or who aren't sure what support they need yet.

What it offers:

  • Simple, clear information about substances and how to stay safe.
  • Short term 1:1 or small group sessions (usually up to 2).
  • Support at school, college, or another place where you feel comfortable.
  • Sessions in classrooms, assemblies or community settings.
  • A safe space to ask questions, learn more, and build confidence before deciding if you want further support.
Find out about CGL Targeted Support

Specialist Service - Support to Make Changes

The Specialist Service is for young people who want to make changes to their drug or alcohol use - reducing, staying safe, or stopping altogether.

What if offers:

  • Ongoing 1:1 support tailored to your goals (no set number of sessions).
  • Space to talk openly about what you want to change and why.
  • Clear, honest conversations about confidentiality and keeping you safe.
  • Goal setting, practical tips, and regular checkins to support progress.
  • Meetings at school, college, or another safe, comfortable place.
Find out about CGL Specialist Support

Support for children affected by someone else's alcohol and/ or drug use

Space 4 U supports children and young people aged 5-18 in Derbyshire who are affected by someone else's alcohol or drug use. The service offers:

  • 1:1 emotional support, a safe space to talk, and creative activities to help explore feelings and stay safe.
  • Support can take place at school, college, or another comfortable place, with a team that is friendly, honest and nonjudgemental.
  • Space 4 Families offers whole family support to help everyone cope together, and Kinship Support provides groups and activity days for children cared for by relatives or carers.

Referrals: Anyone can refer, including families. Children and young people may be offered up to 12 sessions.

Find out more about Space 4 U

Tools and advice to help you take control

You may want to explore practical tools and information before accessing treatment. These resources can help you reflect on your use and make safer choices.

Tell me about drugs

Provides honest information about drugs

I'm a young person

This page provides info and advice for children and young people

Online Chat

Check out this confidential service