Forward Leeds has been successful in winning the contract to provide the city’s alcohol and drug support service for at least another five years.
The service, with sites in Armley, Seacroft and the city centre, will begin its new contract on 1 April 2023. The initial contract will run until 2028 with Leeds Council having an option to extend after that date for up to five years potentially taking it up to April 2033.
Forward Leeds, who recently won Leeds City Council’s Partner of the Year award, is a consortium between three charities: Humankind, St Anne’s Community Services and West Leeds-based BARCA-Leeds, along with the Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (LYPFT).
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s Executive Member for Public Health and Active Lifestyles, said: “As a Care Quality Commission outstanding rated service, it is really pleasing that Forward Leeds have been awarded this contract for the next few years.
“The service plays a vital role in addressing the challenges posed by drug and alcohol use to individuals and communities in Leeds, ensuring that anyone in the city struggling with drug and alcohol issues is able to get support.”
Operations Director of Forward Leeds Helen Cook said: “To be awarded the contract for at least another five years is fantastic. It reflects the quality and the hard work of the staff across our partnership and the commitment that they show in working with people who come to us for support.
“We have had to prove that we are able to continue to offer the high-quality service we have been doing and that we can develop and evolve our service to meet the ever-changing needs of the city.”
For information, advice or support around issues with alcohol or other drugs contact Forward Leeds on 0113 887 2477 email info@forwardleeds.co.uk or visit their website.
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