PostScript360
(formerly known as Battle Against Tranquilliser)
AIM AND MISSION
We are committed in supporting individuals to reduce the harms caused by prescribed drugs of addiction and withdrawal through a wrap-around service of one to one therapy, group therapy and a telephone support service. We train health professions, promote awareness and prevention, as well as support people through advocacy.
STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
Providing a wide range of high-quality services, with a person-centred approach, offering Telephone Support Service, Counselling, Group Therapy for individuals withdrawing from benzodiazepines and other similar drugs safely and successfully.
Developing sustainable relationships between other non-profit organisations, NHS, and community services and to work with lead organisations on delivery, sharing knowledge and innovation.
Use our specialist knowledge and experience to train health professionals and practitioners of withdraw management of prescribed drugs associated with dependence and withdrawal.
Collaborate with Local Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG’s), Primary Care Services and local health providers in delivering our services.
CASE STUDY
“I am 6 months free of diazepam, I am having more good days than bad, and I can now plan for my future, something, I never thought was possible.
Life was very different for me as a child, I had terrible night terrors and panic attacks, they consumed my childhood, to the point where the doctor felt there was nothing more they could do, but to write a prescription for Valium (diazepam). My mum would crush them up every night so I could get some sleep. This continued into my adulthood, I thought this was normal, however I knew that if I didn’t have a prescription, I would become anxious and have panic attacks. I would stockpile at first or say I lost my prescription, then bulk buy on the internet and sometimes I would take my grandmother’s medication. I was having more panic attacks; I saw psychiatrists and psychologists but to no avail. I was struggling to go out, I knew my condition seemed to be getting worse.
Out of the blue, a friend called me, she had said that her company had a presentation about addiction to prescribed drugs by a charity called PostScript360. She said the person on the presentation had the same problems I have; she gave me PostScript360’s details. I knew I had to call them; I was at my lowest.
The staff were so warm and welcoming, I learnt so many things, I actually woke up to my problem! The medication I thought I needed were making me worse, I had built up a tolerance and that’s why needed more – I was addicted to prescribed drugs.
PostScript360 has been a tremendous support, they are always there for me, they explained that I would have to taper off my diazepam gradually, they were upfront saying it’s not going to be easy, but it’s going to be worth It’, how right they were. I joined the group therapy sessions, at first, I was nervous, but the support of the group helped me overcome my loneliness and gave me a voice, enabling me to ask for help. It sounds a bit of cliché about a problem shared is a problem halved but it is so true. I have gained coping skills, if I had a wobble the BAT team are there for me, on the telephone or face to face with encouragement and support. They have spoken with my doctor regarding my prescription and kept him informed of my progress.
I am getting to know the new me now, it’s strange, I quite like myself!”
Sarah, Bristol
WEBSITE AND CONTACT
Website:
Social Value Contact: Terri McDonald, CEO
