Phoenix Futures Essex

☀️ SWEP activated. Temperatures rising. Help protect someone sleeping rough.

High temperatures are forecast across parts of the UK this week, and many local authorities have activated SWEP to support people at risk during extreme weather.

If you see someone sleeping rough, don't assume someone else has reported it.

📍 Send a location
📝 Provide as much detail as possible
🤝 Help local outreach teams find and support them

Raise an alert today: streetlink.org.uk

While millions are awaiting the England Vs Ghana World Cup match today, someone you know might be dreading it.

Research shows domestic abuse incidents rise by up to 38% on England match days. The final whistle doesn't always bring relief for everyone at home.

If you're worried about yourself or someone else, please reach out. Support is available, and you don't have to wait for things to get worse.

📞 Compass Helpline: 0330 333 7 444
Alternatively, find out more on: www.thechange-project.org

Healthwatch Essex have launched their brilliant Fellas' Forums in Harlow, with a meeting to be held at Mind Sanctuary tomorrow!

They will be talking about how attendees would like the group to look and what activities they would like to do at the next sessions.

We're pleased to be able to provide community space to support such a fantastic men's health and wellbeing initiative in Harlow.

Essex Fellas' Forum
📅 Tuesday 23rd June
⏰ 5:30-8pm
📍 Mind Sanctuary, Prentice Place, Potter Street, Harlow CM17 9BG

For more information, get in touch with Reiss Speight, Engagement Officer, at [email protected]

🌡️ Hot Weather & Staying Safe 🌡️

The sunshine can lift our mood, but high temperatures can also bring real risks – especially for people affected by alcohol or drug use.

When it’s hot:

💧 Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water throughout the day. Alcohol and many drugs can increase dehydration and make it harder for your body to regulate its temperature.

☀️ Avoid mixing substances with heat – stimulants such as co***ne, amphetamines and M**A can raise body temperature and heart rate, increasing the risk of overheating, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

🍺 Alcohol isn’t the answer to cooling down – it can dehydrate you, affect your judgement and increase the risk of accidents.

💊 Be aware of medications – some medicines, including certain antidepressants, antipsychotics and water tablets, can make it harder for your body to cope with hot weather or increase the risk of dehydration and overheating. Keep taking your medication as prescribed, and speak to your GP or pharmacist if you have concerns

🏠 Keep cool – stay in the shade, close curtains during the hottest part of the day, and avoid strenuous activity between 11am and 3pm.

👥 Look out for others – check in on friends, family, neighbours or anyone who may be vulnerable, including people experiencing homelessness, mental health difficulties or substance use issues.

🚨 Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke:

* Dizziness or confusion
* Headache
* Excessive sweating or hot, dry skin
* Nausea or vomiting
* Rapid heartbeat
* Loss of consciousness

If someone becomes confused, stops sweating, has a seizure or loses consciousness, call 999 immediately.

At Phoenix Essex, we know that recovery isn’t just about treatment – it’s about keeping yourself safe and well, whatever the weather. 💜

If you’re worried about your own or someone else’s alcohol or drug use, reach out. Support is available.

💙💙This Father’s Day, we recognise strength, resilience, and recovery.💙💙

For every dad, stepdad, grandad, or father figure walking the path of recovery — today is about you.

Recovery isn’t always easy. It takes courage to face challenges, to make changes, and to keep showing up — not just for others, but for yourself. That dedication matters.

To those rebuilding relationships, creating new beginnings, and breaking cycles — your journey is powerful. Your presence, your effort, and your commitment make a difference every single day.

We also hold space for those who may find today difficult — whether through loss, separation, or complex family experiences. You are not alone.

Recovery is possible. Change is possible. And every step forward counts.

Throwback to our collaboration with Futures Essex 🫧🍦

We loved being a part of their women's space and supporting Chelmsford community residents.

If football’s coming home, make sure you get home safely too. Sobriety isn’t always the goal, but staying safe is 🏟️.

Reducing risks is a team effort so zoom into a player and consider taking a piece of harm reduction advice with you if you’re heading out to watch the match tonight ⚽️.

Small choices can make a big difference. For further harm reduction advice and information visit: www.mytp.me/harm-reduction

Mens Mental Health Month 💙

Its okay for men not to be okay

💛