Wednesday 14th October 2026
Speakers: Abby House, Dr Karen Williams, Jenni Whale

for VIA session- By the end of the session, trainees should be able to:
1. Identify when a referral is appropriate, correct, and beneficial for the patient.
2. Understand the available treatment options and how these may support patient care.
3. Recognise the importance of a collaborative approach when supporting patients through treatment pathways.
4. Develop a clearer understanding of the route into treatment, including how to make the process open, accessible, and supportive for patients.
Abby House
Addiction2Advocate | Lived Experience | Public Awareness | Community of 40,000 + |
TikTok, YouTube, LinkedIn, Substack, Discord: @addiction2advocate
'As a recovering codeine addict, I'm passionate about helping people in a similar situation to what I was 2 years ago. I have grown a social media following based around the change I believe should happen, within the addiction and recovery space, in this country. I would love to make a difference to addiction statistics by doing so
Dr Karen Williams
Consultant Liaison and FDAC Psychiatrist
Gloucestershire Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust
Address: Wotton Lawn Hospital
Jenni Whale
Team Leader, VIA Adult Drug and Alcohol Recovery, Gloucestershire
I am the Outreach Lead for VIA Drug and Alcohol Services, leading countywide outreach across Gloucestershire. We specialise in working with people experiencing homelessness and those living in supported accommodation, supporting individuals with complex needs, including substance use and multiple disadvantages. I am passionate about improving access to services and developing collaborative approaches that help people achieve positive and sustainable outcomes whilst championing against stigma.
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