The Vivienne’s family announce they are working with Adferiad on new Anti-Stigma Campaign

The Vivienne/James Lee Williams’s family are working with leading charity Adferiad to raise awareness of the dangers of ketamine use and the devastating impact it can have on individuals and their loved ones.

As part of this commitment, this April Adferiad are launching Only Human, a National Lottery-funded programme designed to encourage open conversations about substance use and addiction, challenge stigma, and ensure that no one suffers in silence. James’s family will be working with Adferiad on this campaign to honour his memory.

Ketamine use, like all substances, carries serious risks when taken outside of a clinically monitored environment.

Chanel Williams, James’s sister says: “We continue to be completely devastated by James’s sudden death. Ketamine is an extremely dangerous drug that is becoming more and more prevalent in the UK. If we can help raise awareness of the dangers of this drug, and help people who may be dealing with ketamine addiction, then something positive will come from this complete tragedy”.

Donna Chaves from Adferiad adds: ” We are incredibly grateful to James’s family for choosing to support and work with us on this campaign.  Their courage in sharing James’s story will help raise vital awareness of the devastating impact substance use can have.  We are seeing a worrying rise in the number of people using ketamine, often unaware of the serious risks it poses to their physical and mental health.  Addiction can affect anyone, and too many people suffer in silence due to stigma and lack of understanding.  By opening conversations and challenging misconceptions, we can help prevent further tragedies and support those in need to find hope and recovery.”

Adferiad supports individuals with mental ill health, substance use and addiction challenges across Wales and England.  Adferiad is committed to breaking the stigma surrounding addiction and ensuring that more people have access to the support they need.

Adferiad also operates Parkland Place, a specialist detox and rehabilitation centre providing expert care to support individuals on their recovery journey.  For more information, visit www.parklandplace.co.uk. If you, a family member, or someone you know is struggling with ketamine or any other substance, you can contact Adferiad for confidential advice on 0300 7772260.