Norwich, Norfolk, UK - 14 January, 2025 - Landmark Clinic, a leading provider of alcohol rehabilitation and addiction recovery services, has responded to recent concerns over rising anti-social behaviour in Norwich, UK, attributed to the scarcity of pharmacies offering critical support for addiction treatment. The clinic’s addiction expert, Carl Price, is calling for urgent and coordinated action to address the impact of these closures on both public safety and individuals in need.
The shortage of pharmacies providing methadone prescriptions is seen as a key driver of recent drug-related issues, particularly in the Town Close area of Norwich. With fewer facilities available to dispense methadone, those struggling with addiction face limited access to this essential treatment, creating significant challenges. Local councillors, including Emma Corlett, have reported incidents of fights, drug dealing, and the careless disposal of drug paraphernalia, all taking place in close proximity to local families and children.
Mr. Price emphasised the importance of accessible addiction treatment and community-based support, noting, “The lack of pharmacy services offering supervised methadone prescriptions is not merely a matter of convenience; it’s a fundamental public health issue. When people in recovery face obstacles to accessing essential medications, they may be forced to seek treatment far from their support systems. This situation contributes to the clustering of vulnerable individuals in specific areas, placing strain on both these individuals and the surrounding community.”
Landmark Clinic offers specialised alcohol rehab in Norwich, recognising that addiction often involves complex, co-occurring issues, including dependence on both alcohol and drugs. As the clinic's expert on addiction and recovery, Mr. Price believes a multifaceted approach is necessary. “While our clinic is focused on alcohol rehab, we see daily how intertwined these challenges are. Many people require a mix of support services, from pharmacy-dispensed medications to structured rehab programs. This crisis reflects a broader need to reimagine our approach to addiction recovery as an integrated, community-wide effort.”
Funding cuts have severely impacted the availability of these pharmacy services. According to the National Pharmacy Association, pharmacies are closing at a rate of seven per week across the UK, driven by budget cuts and escalating medicine costs. Several locations in Norwich, including Lloyds Pharmacies and Boots outlets, have closed, reducing the city's capacity to manage drug treatment effectively. While local initiatives, such as Project ADDER, are investing millions in combating addiction-related issues, Mr. Price contends that expanded resources are critical.
Landmark Clinic advocates for both increased funding for pharmacies and dedicated addiction services to relieve the burden on communities facing these challenges. Mr. Price concluded, “The solution to this crisis lies in collaboration among public health services, law enforcement, addiction specialists, and local councils. With a coordinated approach, we can work toward a Norwich where all residents feel safe, and where those in need of addiction support have the resources they require to pursue lasting recovery.”
Media Contact
Company Name: Landmark Clinic
Contact Person: Alan Price
Email:Send Email
Phone: 0800 158 3735
Address:No.8 Thorpe Road
City: Norwich, NR1 1RY
State: Norfolk
Country: United Kingdom
Website: https://www.landmark-clinic.org.uk/
