Hackney substance misuse treatment services have seen a 9 per cent rise in adults seeking help, new figures show.
Analysis by Hackney Council found that between March 2022 and January 2025, the number of adults in substance use treatment rose from 2,014 to 2,202.
The data also points to significant unmet need: 37 per cent of people in treatment with co-existing mental health needs are not receiving adequate mental health support — nearly double the 18 per cent seen nationally.
Writing for London Now, Dr Olivier Andlauer said many people misunderstand why others misuse substances. It is often assumed people simply “choose” to and can easily stop — but the reality is far more complicated.
Substance misuse covers the use of illegal drugs, as well as legal substances such as alcohol, prescription medicines and tobacco used incorrectly or harmfully, in ways that can cause physical or mental harm.
Another common misconception is that everyone who misuses substances also has a mental health illness. While many do, there may be deeply personal reasons behind the path someone has taken.
Stigma can make it hard for people to talk about substance misuse or ask for help. But several local organisations can support people taking that first step towards recovery.
The City & Hackney Recovery Service supports residents experiencing difficulties with alcohol or substance use, offering a safe and welcoming space with no referral needed. People can attend on a first-come, first-served basis unless they have an appointment, with in-person and remote assessments available Monday to Saturday.
The Young Hackney Substance Misuse Service is free and confidential for anyone under 25, offering advice and support to young people concerned about their own substance use — or worried about a friend or family member.
The City & Hackney Mental Health and Substance Use Service, run jointly by Turning Point and the East London NHS Foundation Trust, supports people with severe mental illness alongside harmful or dependent substance use. Referrals can be made via cityandhackney@turning-point.co.uk or turningpoint.city-hackney@nhs.net.
The figures come as the borough debates other pressures on local services, with the council urging a rethink of planned Hackney bus cuts.
If you are struggling, remember you are not alone — talking openly about your difficulties can be an important first step towards getting support.
