SIBS (New Sibling Counselling Service)

DAFS New Sibling Counselling Service

DAFS (Drug Alcohol Family Support) provide a support and counselling service for family members (aged 18 and over) affected by a loved one’s substance misuse.

Who is the new DAFS ‘SIBS’ Service for?

In November 2009 DAFS received funding to provide a new ‘Sibling’ service to specifically focus on the needs of siblings under the age of 18 whose lives are affected by a brother or sister’s substance misuse. The service is for young people between 11 and 18 years living in the Blaenau Gwent or Caerphilly area.

What may be the impact of a sibling’s substance misuse?

Family life may be chaotic and unsettling for the young person.
Their needs may be ignored and minimised while their parents react to continuous crises involving the sibling who uses drugs and/or alcohol.
They may feel deep feelings of resentment, anger and shame. They may feel invisible, unimportant and afraid.
They may not know how to cope with their feelings. They may self-harm, ‘act out’ or withdraw. They may also get into trouble themselves because they are trying to get some attention.

What does the ‘SIBS’ Service provide?

We provide one-to-one structured counselling for young people affected by a sibling’s substance misuse. Counselling provides the young person with a safe space for them to talk about their thoughts and feelings regarding their experience.

It is a therapeutic relationship where they can feel listened to and understood and can learn helpful ways to cope with their feelings and learn how to manage their problems differently. The service is free of charge. Appointments are available on Wednesdays and Thursdays in the Caerphilly and Blaenau Gwent areas at various venues.

How to access the service

Young people can either refer themselves; be referred by other professional services; or be referred by someone they trust, as long as they give the person verbal consent. Referrals can be made via telephone or written referral form.

How to contact us:

DAFS can be contacted by telephone: 01495 240824

Office Hours: Mondays – Thursdays 9-5
Fridays 9-4

DAFS Head Office:
Swffryd Clinic, Walters Avenue, Swffryd, NP11 5HT