Alcohol and Drug Rehab Dorset
Rehab Dorset: Rebuilding Lives through a Compassionate Approach to Treatment
Providence project opened its doors in 1996 and has supported over 10,000 people experiencing a transformation in their lives, achieving long-term recovery from addiction.
We truly believe that with the right support and in the right environment, everyone has the innate ability to remove the burden of addiction from their lives and start afresh, no matter how complex or painful their situation is.
Taking the first leap of reaching out for support from the debilitating impact of addiction can be one of the hardest steps in the recovery process, Providence Projects, you will find a compassionate expert team ready to guide you every step of the way toward a healthier, sober future.


Providence Projects
- Located in Bournemouth
17 Carysfort Rd
Boscombe
Bournemouth
BH1 4EJ
-
Open 24 hours
- 0800 955 0945
4.7 (119 Reviews on Google)
Understanding Addiction
Addiction is a chronic disorder characterised by the compulsive use of substances or engagement in behaviours despite harmful consequences. It requires treatment to overcome and manage the intense cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and a loss of control over use or behaviour.
Living with addiction can be an overwhelming and isolating experience, affecting every aspect of a person’s life, including their health, relationships, and daily functioning making people feel trapped and powerless. There are different types of addictions, each with its own treatment approach.
Types of Addiction we help with
Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol addiction is a chronic disease characterised by the inability to control drinking, even when it harms your life.
We recognise that alcohol addiction can create a tough cycle that affects your relationships, health, job and overall quality of life. However, recovery is possible for everyone.
Our alcohol rehab Dorset treatment program tackles both the physical and mental sides of addiction, offering a comprehensive approach that equips you with the tools needed to lead a life free from addiction. Our experienced team of medical professionals and therapists work closely together to design a personalised addiction treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and circumstances.
Drug addiction
Drug addiction is a condition characterised by the compulsive use of substances despite the destructive implications they cause.
Our personalised treatment plans address both the physical symptoms of withdrawal and the underlying factors contributing to addiction medically supervised detoxification, therapy, and support to empower you to move forward in recovery.
Our experts look closely at the underlying factors and triggers for drug use to equip you with resilient coping mechanisms.
Gambling addiction
Gambling addiction, also known as compulsive gambling or gambling disorder, is a serious condition characterised by an uncontrollable urge to gamble.
It can spiral into financial problems, strained relationships, and a huge sense of hopelessness and shame.
At Dorset Rehab Centre, our comprehensive treatment approach uses the latest evidence to prevent relapses, igniting strength within you to take back control. Our approach to treating gambling addiction is centred on addressing the underlying issues that fuel the destructive behaviour.
The Prevalence of Addiction in Dorset
Addiction is a huge concern of Dorset’s council due to the impact it has on local health services and crime rates in the community. Because of this, the council has a drug and alcohol strategy in place to increase community safety and provide better outcomes to those struggling with addiction.
Through this strategy, Dorset’s council aims to decrease the number of alcohol-related deaths that have been on the rise in recent years.


240
traffic collisions are caused by alcohol annually.
11
out of 219 areas rank among the top 20% most deprived areas nationally for multiple deprivation.
8.8%
of adults between the ages of 16 and 59 have used an illegal drug within the past year.
6%
of individuals aged 16 and above are consuming alcohol at high-risk levels, amounting to over 37,000 people.
The Impact of Addiction on Dorset
Addiction significantly impacts the Dorset community, leading to heightened crime rates as individuals struggling with substance abuse often engage in theft, burglaries, and drug-related offences to support their habits, endangering local residents and businesses.
The strain on local healthcare is substantial with an increasing number of devastating cases related to alcohol and drug-related illnesses. Mental health challenges are particularly concerning among Dorset’s younger population, who often turn to alcohol and drugs as coping mechanisms, resulting in increased rates of self-harm.
Additionally, Dorset faces unique social and economic disparities common to many coastal communities. This sense of disparity impacts health too with life expectancy disparity between the most deprived and least deprived areas in Dorset is 6.3 years for men and 5.3 years for women.


In Dorset, the rate of hospital admissions due to alcohol-related harm among individuals under 18 years old was notably high at 42 per 100,000.
There is an estimated number of 1500 crimes related to drug offences in Dorset.
NHS Initiatives to Combat Addiction
The NHS has implemented several programmes and resources to combat addiction in Dorset, aiming to provide comprehensive care and support for those affected. Key initiatives include:
Dorset HealthCare Services
Dorset HealthCare provides a comprehensive range of services for individuals dealing with drug and alcohol addiction. These services include medical treatment, psychosocial support, blood-borne virus services, and psychological interventions. They offer tailored programs to meet the specific needs of patients, ensuring holistic care and support throughout their recovery journey.
Public Health Dorset
Public Health Dorset works in collaboration with various partners to improve health and wellbeing across the region, including Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole. They offer support and treatment for alcohol and drug problems through local providers. Their initiatives also focus on preventive measures and community-based support to address the root causes of addiction.
LiveWell Dorset
LiveWell Dorset is a free service providing advice and coaching to help individuals live healthier, happier lives. This includes support for reducing alcohol consumption and quitting smoking, which are essential components of addressing substance misuse and its associated health issues.
Integrated Care System
The “Our Dorset” initiative represents a collaborative effort among NHS organisations, councils, public services, and voluntary partners to deliver integrated health and care services. This system aims to remove traditional barriers between services, ensuring comprehensive support for individuals affected by addiction. The focus is on providing seamless care that addresses both physical and mental health needs, thereby improving overall wellbeing.
Alcohol and Drug Rehab in Dorset
Community Support & Resources
There is support most days of the week for individuals in Dorset.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings in Dorset
Monday
Lunchtime Discussion – 13:00, United Reformed Church, Corner of Spa Rd, Roman Rd, DT3 5EN.
19:00, Masonic Lodge, Station Rd, Gillingham, SP8 4PY
The Lantern – 19:30, The Lantern Trust, 2 Ranelagh Road, DT4 7JD.
There is a Solution Newcomers – 19:30, St Paul’s Church, 58 Abbotsbury Rd, DT4 0BJ.
19:45, Dorchester Day Centre, Acland Rd, Dorchester, DT1 1SH
Tuesday
12:00, Cerne Abbas Rm, United Reformed Church, 49-51 Charles St, Dorchester
Weymouth As Bill Sees It – 19:30, St Augustines Church Hall, Dorchester Rd, DT4 7JZ.
Shaftesbury Newcomers – 19:30, Bell Street United Church, Bell St, Shaftesbury, SP7 8AR
Blandford – 19:30, Blandford Forum Parish Centre, The Plocks, Blandford, DT11 7DW
Swanage – 19:45, The Day Centre, 107 High St, Swanage, BH19 2NB
Wednesday
Charmouth Step – 18:30, The Elms, The Parish Council Office, First Floor, Mallory Hayter Rm, The Street, CHARMOUTH
Let’s Keep It Simple – 19:30, St Francis of Assisi Church Hall, Merredin Close, Littlemoor, DT3 6SJ.
Weymouth How It Works – 19:30, Milton Hall, Milton Rd, Weymouth, DT4 0AZ
Thursday
Beaminster How’s Your Head – 12:00, The Strode Room, St Mary’s Church, Church St, Beaminster, DT8 3BA
Shaftesbury Big Book Study – 19:30, Methodist Church Hall, Bell St, Shaftesbury, SP7 8AR
Weymouth Let’s Keep It Simple – 19:30, St Francis of Assisi Church Hall, Merredin Close, Weymouth, DT3 6SJ
Corfe Castle Pass it On – 19:45 Corfe Castle Village Hall, 67 East St, Corfe Castle, BH20 5EE
Friday
Dorchester Living Sober Lunch – 12:00, Tolpuddle Rm, United Reformed Church, 49-51 Charles St, Dorchester, DT1 1EE
Shaftesbury – 13:00, The Trinity Centre, Bimport, Shaftesbury, SP7 8BW
Wincanton Big Book Study – 19:00, Methodist Church Hall, 50 High St, Wincanton, BA9 9JF
Puddletown Candlelit– 19:30, St Mary’s Church Hall, The Square, Puddletown, DT2 8SL
Weymouth 164 -19:30, Milton Hall, Newstead Rd, Weymouth, DT4 0AZ
Saturday
Lyme Regis Chips4Breakfast – 08:30, The Hub, Church St, Lyme Regis, DT7 3BS.
Weymouth Littlemoor – 19:30, St Francis of Assisi Church Hall, Merredin Close, Weymouth, DT3 6SJ.
Sunday
Sturminster Newton – 11:00, Stour Connect, Stour View Close, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1JF.
Weymouth Keys to the Kingdom-12:30, Westham Methodist Church (Milton Hall), Newstead Rd, Weymouth, DT4 0AZ
Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings in Dorset
Monday
Just for Today – 12:30, Kings Park Café, Boscombe BH1 4NN
Mellow Monday – 19:00, Side Room, Weymouth Baptist Church, 18 The Esplanade, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8DT.
Basic Text Book Study – 19:30 – Bourne Community Hub, Poole BH12 4DY
Step & Tradition – 19:30, The Reach Building, Gillingham SP8 4DZ
West Howe It Works – 19:30, Cornerstone Church, Holloway Avenue, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH11 9JR.
Tuesday
12:30, West Cliff Baptist Church, Westbourne BH4 9DN
Book Reading – 19:00, Christchurch Baptist Church, Christchurch BH23 1QT
Freedom in Recovery – 19:30, Dorford Centre, Dorchester Baptist Church, 2 Bridport Road, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1RR.
Reading/Share – 19:30, Beaufort Road Community Centre, Southbourne BH6 5LB
Wednesday
Kings Park Newcomers Meeting – 10:30, Café, Kings Park, Boscombe BH1 4NN.
New Milton Newcomers Meeting – 19:15, St Mary Magdeline Church, New Milton BH25 6QL
Open to All Share – 19:30, Hub Station Approach, Boscombe BH1 4NB.
Wobbly Wednesdays – 19:30, St Mary’s Church, St Mary Street, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8PU.
Topic/Share – 19:30, Hamworthy Meeting, St Michaels Church Hall, Hamworthy BH15 4HR.
LGBTQ Friends & Allies
– 19:30, St Paul’s Direct Access Hostel, Bournemouth BH8 8AJ
Thursday
Illness in Recovery Group – 10:45, Trinity Methodist Church, Southbourne BH6 5AG
The Nightmare is Over – 19:30, The Loft, Swanage Community Centre, Swanage BH19 1DF.
Miracle Thursday – 19:30, St Swithun’s Church, Bridport DT6 5DU,
Candlelit Meeting
– 19:30, Moordown Community Centre,
Bournemouth BH8 0HT.
Parkstone Meeting – Parkstone, Commercial Road, Poole BH14 0JW.
Friday
NA Beaufort Road Friday Lunch Time – 12:15, Beaufort Road Community Centre, Beaufort Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH6 5LB.
Just For Today – 17:00, Trinity Methodist Church, 84 Southbourne Road, Southbourne, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH6 5AG.
Thank God It’s Friday
– 19:30, St Mary’s Church, Weymouth DT4 8PU.
Bournemouth Young Persons – 19:30, West Cliff Baptist Church, Poole Road, Westbourne BH4 9DN
Alternate Step / Experience, Strength & Hope Share – 20:00, Beaufort Road Community Centre, Southbourne BH6 5LB
Saturday
Women’s Meeting – 10:30, Trinity Methodist Church, Southbourne BH6 5AG.
Just For Today Newcomers
14:30, Westham Methodist Church, Weymouth DT4 0AR
Westcliff Baptist Church – 18:30, West Cliff Baptist Church, Poole Road, Westbourne BH4 9DN.
The Ultimate Weapon – 19:30, Hinton Room, YMCA, 56 Westover Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 2BS.
The Different Types of Addiction Treatment
At Providence Projects, we offer inpatient treatment for our alcohol and drug rehab Dorset because this aligns with our philosophy of recovery based on the evidence we’ve found in over 25 years of supporting people.
Inpatient rehab or residential rehab means staying at the facility for continuous, intensive care, while outpatient rehab lets you live at home and fit treatment sessions into your daily life, offering more flexibility and freedom.
While our inpatient approach may be viewed as disruptive to daily life, we have found that this is what is needed from igniting a fully focused journey of recovery.
Being in an immersive and safe space, surrounded by people who deeply understand what you’re going through can be transformative to spark a lasting foundation of sobriety without any distractions.
Our support never stops there, we implement personalised aftercare to support the recovery process after the rehabilitation time.


The importance of medical detoxification


Arriving for treatment from Dorset
Situated along the south coast of England, Bournemouth is a beautiful seaside resort and the birthplace of the Providence Projects. Travelling to Bournemouth is convenient, with excellent transport links available.
London Heathrow Airport (LHR) is approximately an hour’s drive away, and there are regular train and bus services to Poole, Dorset, which connect to Bournemouth. The Providence Projects are located off the A338 in Boscombe, just a short distance from Boscombe Beach and a quick drive from Bournemouth’s main attractions.
For over 25 years we have prided ourselves in being able to provide a client-centric treatment programme for alcohol and drug addictions. As part of our service and included in the treatment cost, a full medical assessment is conducted upon arrival.


Sober Transportation from Dorset to The Providence Projects
To ensure a safe and stress-free arrival, we always offer sober transportation services. This means that clients can be picked up from their location and brought directly to the facility by a trained professional who understands the importance of maintaining a sober and supportive environment. This ensures you’re not alone when embarking on this hugely vulnerable step to recovery, ensuring you arrive safely ready to begin treatment.
Whether you need to be collected from your home or another addiction treatment clinic in Surrey, we can provide a safe and comfortable transportation service that involves being collected by a person in long-term recovery. They will bring you to our treatment centre safely to begin your alcohol or drug rehab programme.


Alternative Treatment Options
There are various support options for addiction, offering a range of approaches to suit different needs and preferences. These can be introduced alongside treatment plans at the alcohol rehab Dorset or trialled beforehand.
Dorset Intergroup Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings in Dorset provide peer support through 12-step programs, helping individuals in Dorset find community and guidance in their recovery. These meetings are held regularly and are open to anyone seeking help with alcohol or drug addiction. The supportive environment of AA and NA encourages sharing experiences and learning from others who have faced similar challenges.
EDAS (Essential Drug and Alcohol Services)
EDAS offers a range of services including private counselling, group support, and training courses for those affected by addiction and mental distress. Their services cater to both adults and young people, with a focus on creating a supportive and understanding environment. They provide therapeutic support and have programs like the Coffee Connection, which is a peer support group aimed at adults dealing with mental health issues.
Reach - EDP drug & alcohol services
REACH provides comprehensive support for individuals struggling with drug and alcohol misuse. They offer clinical support, recovery tools, needle exchanges, and family support services. Their approach includes direct access to help, often with no waiting times, and they operate multiple hubs across Dorset where people can receive ongoing support and engage in group activities.
Dorset Mind
This charity focuses on mental health support, which includes services for those affected by addiction. They run various programs and events aimed at promoting mental well-being and providing support for individuals and families dealing with mental health issues. Dorset Mind operates independently and relies on local fundraising and donations.
EATA Recovery Services
EATA (European Addiction Treatment Agency) in Dorset helps individuals struggling with addiction by connecting them to both inpatient and outpatient treatment services. They provide comprehensive support, including medical supervision, psychotherapy, and cognitive-behavioural therapy, to guide people towards recovery.
Counsellors and Psychiatrists
Professional assistance from counsellors and psychiatrists is essential for tackling the psychological facets of addiction. These healthcare experts provide personalised therapy, group sessions, and psychiatric assessments to develop customised treatment plans that address both the mental and physical aspects of addiction.
Hospital Details
Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust offers comprehensive addiction services including prescribing, psychosocial support, blood-borne virus services, and psychological therapies. For detailed support and services, contact their addiction services directly through their website or at the provided contact numbers.
Dorset County Hospital provides addiction support services, including various leaflets and resources for managing drug and alcohol problems. They can be reached at their main switchboard number, 01305 251150, for more information.
How 12-Step Programs Can Aid in Recovery
In Dorset, 12-Step programmes like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) offer a compassionate and supportive community where you can share your journey, find a mentor, and work through the steps to recovery in a safe, confidential environment. These meetings provide a sense of belonging and help you grow emotionally and spiritually, offering the tools and encouragement needed to overcome addiction.


Holistic and Alternative Therapies
Incorporating treatments like acupuncture, meditation, yoga, and art therapy to address the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of addiction recovery.
These holistic therapies, are often part of comprehensive rehab programs aimed at providing a more rounded approach to treatment.
Benefits of Integrating Alternative Therapies
Combining holistic therapies with traditional treatments you would expect to find at an alcohol and drug rehab in Dorset can enhance overall recovery outcomes. Yoga and meditation help reduce stress and improve mental clarity, while acupuncture can aid in managing withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings. These therapies support the healing process by promoting relaxation, mindfulness, and overall health.


A Clear Path to Recovery
How does addiction treatment work?
Providence Projects provides a distraction-free environment for you to regain control of your addiction.
It all starts with a phone call with our friendly team – just a chat to make sure we understand your situation.
We know that it’s tough to take the first step, but once you’ve asked for help, we’ll support you to overcome your addiction by tackling the root cause










What to Expect from Treatment
Everyone’s treatment looks different depending on each client’s unique needs. Our clients have left our centres with life-changing experiences. We understand how daunting it is to seek support but you can expect complete understanding – our treatment experiences are designed by people in recovery for those seeking recovery with a success rate of over 95%.
Our focus is to equip you after you leave our locations and include your close family if needed.
Other parts of the treatment plans include:
- Affirmations to build self-esteem
- Workshops that cover the topics of family, goals, anger management, grief, relapse prevention, financial management, shame, and more.
- Both of our centres are within a 5-minute walk from the beach so we incorporate lots of outdoor exercise into the treatment plans.
- Written assessments
- Guest speakers
- Alternative therapies such as acupuncture, meditation, and mindfulness
- Fun activities because we believe recovery is about having fun and rediscovering joy in life.
DEDICATED TO TURNING LIVES AROUND
Making miracles happen daily


Michael Drake
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I’ve been a client at Providence for over six months, experiencing a full spectrum of emotions, but the prevailing feeling has been a profound sense of connection and belonging. The atmosphere is one of love, unity, and genuine friendship. Regardless of which counselor you’re assigned to, all the staff are approachable and offer invaluable advice. Their unwavering knowledge and caring nature have genuinely saved my life. The entire Providence team, including clerical and support staff, has given me the strength and enthusiasm to apply what I’ve learned. As I leave, I’ll carry Providence in my heart and prayers forever. Thank you.


Kelly Cooper
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Providence has saved my life. When I arrived, I was physically, mentally, and emotionally drained; without this rehab, I’d be dead. They helped me rebuild my confidence and discover my true self. The counselors, especially Dougie, were incredibly understanding and crucial to my progress. After 12 weeks and now in aftercare, I finally know what I want for the first time in 24 years and am confident I’ll achieve my dreams. I highly recommend Providence to anyone seeking to overcome addiction. Even in aftercare, I miss Provi already and am deeply grateful. Thank you.


Sarah Carter
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I can’t thank The Providence Project and its amazing team enough. What was supposed to be a four-week stay turned into six months because it was life-changing. As a single mother, leaving my daughter was hard, but it was worth it. The program helped me overcome my addiction to sleeping tablets and taught me valuable life skills, making me a better mother and person. This place gave me my life back and my daughter “a better mummy.” To any mother worried about treatment due to separation, it’s worth it—the benefits are priceless. Going to The Providence Project was the best decision I’ve made, and I’m forever grateful. Sarah x


Josh Smith
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The Providence Projects is a special place that saved my life when I had nothing left to give. The counselors are amazing, genuinely caring, and encourage you to be yourself in a supportive environment. They provide a deep understanding of addiction and the tools to prevent relapses. Since leaving The Prov, I am proud to live my life as a recovering addict. I will recommend The Providence Projects to anyone in need, as the possibilities it offers are endless.


Daniel Jordan
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I arrived at the Provy lost and broken after years of addiction and failed treatments, but something felt different here. From reception to support staff, everyone made me feel loved until I could love myself. For the first time, I received the help, knowledge, and tools I needed for lasting recovery. The unique approach, the supportive groups, and the house where I lived were crucial to my healing. Near death at the end of my addiction, I owe my life to Providence and my counselor, Clinton. Nearly two years clean and sober, I’m proud to be part of the Provy family, where the door is always open and the support is unwavering.


Richard Shottin
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Providence has changed my life completely. From living a life with no hope, this place has taught my how to live again. The group therapy and 1-1 counselling really helped me to discover who I am and what I want from life, free from drugs and alcohol. The staff are excellent and I know I wouldn’t be where I am now without them. I’d recommend Providence to anyone who needs help. Give it a go and you won’t regret it.
WE'RE HERE TO HELP
Taking the first steps towards recovery
Taking the first step towards recovery can be daunting and vulnerable, but it is also the most important. At Providence Projects, we believe in the innate power of every individual to overcome addiction and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Our dedicated team understands the challenges you face and we’re committed to providing the compassionate care you need.
Speak to us to find out how we can help you or your loved one begin the journey to recovery.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rehab
What types of addiction treatments are available in Dorset?
At Dorset, we offer a comprehensive range of addiction treatments tailored to individual needs, including detoxification, one-to-one counselling, group therapy, alternative therapies, and holistic treatments to support your journey to recovery.
How long is the typical rehab programme?
The typical rehab programme at Dorset usually includes a primary treatment phase of 12 weeks, followed by an optional secondary treatment phase of another 12 weeks to reinforce recovery and support reintegration into the community.
Are the addiction treatments tailored to individual needs?
Yes, treatments at Dorset are highly personalised. Each individual receives a tailored treatment plan that addresses their unique circumstances and needs to ensure the most effective path to recovery.
Are there payment plans or financial assistance options?
Yes, we offer various payment plans and financial assistance options to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent you from receiving the help you need.
Is family involvement included in the treatment process at the Dorset rehab?
Yes, family involvement is a crucial part of our treatment process. We offer family therapy sessions to help rebuild and strengthen relationships as part of the recovery journey.
What should I bring with me when I come to Dorset?
You will be provided with a detailed list of items to bring, which typically includes comfortable clothing, personal hygiene items, and any prescribed medications. We recommend leaving valuables at home.
Can I visit your rehab before committing to a rehab programme?
Absolutely. We encourage potential clients and their families to visit Providence Projects to get a feel for our environment and meet our dedicated team before making any decisions.
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Watch the BBC Documentary - Matt Willis: Fighting Addiction

