Organisations working across health, social care, criminal justice, and community services are invited to take part in the National Challenging Stigma Pilot Programme (NCSPP) – a UK‑wide, evidence‑based initiative led by Liverpool John Moores University.
This programme aims to reduce stigma towards people who use alcohol and other drugs, a key barrier to access, care, and recovery.
The work is focused in former Project ADDER areas, including Redcar & Cleveland, Middlesbrough, Newcastle, Liverpool, Knowsley, Wirral, Hastings, and Tower Hamlets.
As part of the programme, organisations can access a 30‑minute interactive online training package, designed to be:
- accessible and engaging
- relevant across professional roles
- suitable with no prior specialist knowledge
The training will cover:
• an overview of alcohol and drug‑related harms in the UK
• understanding stigma, prejudice, and discrimination
• how professional stigma develops – and why it matters
• practical ways to reduce stigma in everyday practice
• lived‑experience video content
• additional resources for continued professional development
Benefits for staff and organisations:
✔ increased confidence in addressing stigma
✔ stronger commitment to dignity, respect, and equity in care
✔ contribution to a national evidence base shaping future policy and practice
The training also includes a Professional Stigma Indicator, with a short follow‑up survey after three months to support reflection, learning, and service improvement.
All participating staff must complete the training by 31 May 2026.
Training is available via the Anti‑Stigma Network, visit https://training.antistigmanetwork.org.uk.
Please note: login details should not be shared without contacting the project team.
For more information, get in touch with Chris Barnes, Lead Researcher (NCSPP) at Liverpool John Moores University by emailing c.barnes@ljmu.ac.uk.
