Launched by our Royal Patron, The Princess of Wales in 2021, this year, the UK’s leading addiction campaign Taking Action On Addiction, led by the Forward Trust, is on a mission to Get The Nation Talking About Addiction.
Addiction affects millions of people across the UK - in our families, workplaces, and communities - but stigma and silence stop too many from asking for help. Fear of judgement isolates people and prevents recovery.
The week of focus on addiction and recovery will kickstart a renewed year-round campaign which aims to demonstrate that through real conversations about addiction, we can replace stigma with understanding, judgement with empathy, and silence with support.
During the week of 23rd November to 30th November the campaign will feature new research which reveals public understanding of addiction; events which celebrate the resilience of people in recovery; employer forums which spotlight best practice; community events across the Forward Trust Network; and spotlight stories which inspire and move the dial on how we understand addiction.
Launching this year’s campaign week, Forward Trust chair Tony Adams MBE said that he hopes that Addiction Awareness Week 2025 will; “Help us to Get The Nation Talking about Addiction so that we can break down the stigma that prevents so many people from seeking the help that they need.
“Together, we can create a culture where anyone feels able to speak openly about addiction — whether they are seeking help themselves, supporting a loved one, or shaping workplaces and communities. Talking is the first step to recovery, and recovery is possible for everyone.
“I made the decision many years to talk openly about my struggles with alcohol addiction, and it’s the best decision I ever made.”
Addiction thrives in silence.
Recovery begins with conversation.
The conversation starts here.