Angus Alcohol and Drugs Partnership

“I would like to share some feedback about the Digital Lifeline phones I received. I have had lots of positive feedback but one case of mine stands out in particular.”

‘Sam’ was discharged from Hospital after a near death overdose (this was his second overdose within weeks). He was moved into temporary accommodation and was in a very dark place.

He was very depressed and referred to himself as a burden. I referred him to you for a phone and delivered it to him. The change in him over the next few weeks was unbelievable. He could not believe that he actually had a phone for himself as he spent months trying to use friends’ phones and often they would charge him for the calls. He managed to contact his family, and start positive steps to rebuild relationships with them.

He also took pride in the fact that he could source local groups, where he has made friends since attending. He also has his Universal Credit claim set up on his phone, and to him the benefit is huge. ‘Sam’ also stated he feels proud of himself as he can make GP and health appointments, and he can watch movies on YouTube and now feels less isolated.

He looks after his phone and has purchased a screen cover. In his words the phone has saved his life as if he didn’t have it he would quite easily have went down the wrong road again. He would like to thank the providers and tell them they have done a fantastic job and that he no longer feels alone and scared living alone, and this is thanks to them.

“I would also like to add that for workers these phones are a blessing. Before the phones came about, I would spend hours per week visiting, supporting the client to make phone calls or call on their behalf, and would spend hours on hold to utility companies, etc..

I now have these hours to make a difference to other lives. Thank you so much to the providers for their generosity and their fantastic initiative.”