On Wednesday 8th October 2025, we held an Open Day to celebrate our move from Hope Street to our new home at Whittle Court in Hanley.
Staff, volunteers, local partners, and residents came together to mark this exciting new chapter for the service. The day gave us a chance to open our doors, share our work, and show how we support anyone in Stoke-on-Trent affected by drugs or alcohol.
Honoured guests and shared learning
We welcomed the Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, Cllr Steve Watkins, and the Lady Mayoress, Cllr Lynn Watkins, who also serves as cabinet member for health integration and wellbeing, to join the celebrations.
Councillor Steve Watkins, Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, said:
“It was a privilege to attend the CDAS open day at Whittle Court and learn more about the support that is available for residents struggling with drug and alcohol problems. Also, it was clear to see the strength of community that exists here, which is important for those who are in need of help and looking to change their lives.”
Throughout the day, guests took part in group sessions, naloxone training, and met the team behind our safe, accessible, and trauma-informed service. It was also a chance to learn more about the wide range of support we offer, including our drop-in service, where anyone over 18 can come and speak to a trained Recovery Worker for advice, information, or support.
A space designed around people’s needs
Our move to Whittle Court, which is close to Central Forest Park, gives us a space that meets the needs of our clients. The building is welcoming, safe, and easy to access, helping people feel comfortable reaching out for help and reducing barriers to support.
Vicki Nash, Head of Service Delivery at CDAS, said:
“Whittle Court has already made such a difference, giving us a home that is welcoming, accessible, and increasing our ability to respond to local need. Since launching our drop-in, we’ve seen more people than ever reaching out for support with drug and alcohol challenges.
This open day has been a chance to show the strength of our community and the progress we’ve made. We’re excited to build on that momentum as we look to the future.”
Moreover, the new space allows us to deliver a wider range of services -from regular drop-in sessions and one-to-one support to aftercare, creative recovery, and community connection, we provide person-centered support for anyone who needs it, meeting people where they are and helping them take their next step.
Community, compassion and hope
The Open Day was a wonderful reminder of the strength of our community. Seeing so many people come together – staff, clients, volunteers, partners, and supporters – showed how much care and hope there is in Stoke-on-Trent. A sentiment shared by Councillor Lynn Watkins, cabinet member for health integration and wellbeing at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, who said:
“It is vital that those who are beginning their path to recovery from drug and alcohol addiction can do this in a safe space and with the right support.
“These facilities at Whittle Court allow for service users to access what they need without judgement as we continue to help people to live healthier lives and reduce health inequality in the city. I encourage anybody struggling to reach out or attend a CDAS drop-in session and get the help you need.”
We’d like to thank everyone who joined us and helped make the day such a success.
If you or someone you know needs support, visit our drop-in at Whittle Court or find out more here.
