We’re incredibly proud to share the inspiring journey of Mandy Yasities, a peer mentor at our Ellesmere Port hub in Cheshire West and Chester. Mandy has recently become one of the faces of BRIO Leisure, which operates leisure centres across Cheshire and offers a wide range of health, fitness, and well-being services. Her story is a powerful example of hope, resilience, and determination. 

As part of Mandy Yasities’ recovery progress, she joined Via’s gym scheme in partnership with BRIO Leisure, starting with an induction that helped her ease into the program. Over time, she embraced the physical and mental health benefits of fitness, preferring group classes over the gym itself, and made regular attendance a key part of her recovery plan. 

Her consistent efforts and positive attitude have been truly transformative. Mandy is thriving in recovery and continues to encourage her peers to adopt similar routines. Her dedication caught the attention of BRIO Leisure, who invited her to participate in a photoshoot for their campaign. You may even spot her picture on bus shelter ads and billboards! Mandy’s role as one of BRIO’s ambassadors doesn’t stop there; she’s already scheduled for another photo shoot this spring. 

Her story is a testament to what can be achieved with determination, community support, and access to initiatives like the gym scheme. 

Here’s what Mandy Yasities had to say: “The BRIO Gym scheme has been an integral part of my recovery. It was suggested to me by my keyworker at the time – Amanda Casey at Unity House – around two years ago. I was apprehensive at first because of the stigma I thought I would face, but it was absolutely fine! It gave me a sense of purpose, something to achieve, and also something to fill my time. 

I have identified over the years that routine is very important to me in everyday life. Being able to book onto classes regularly gives me a routine that I can stick to and work around other things I have going on in my life, such as volunteering at Via! I absolutely love my volunteering and am learning lots – it’s really nice to be a part of a lovely, supportive, and encouraging team. 

Joining BRIO has definitely helped my recovery one hundred percent, and I am so happy to now be a part of their new campaign. It shows me how far I have come in the last two years, as there’s no way I would have done this then! I have had my struggles, as we all have, but the team at BRIO and the team at Via and Unity House have inspired me to carry on. I get loads of support and am able to use my own experiences to help others. It helps that people currently in service can see that there is hope and light at the end of the tunnel if you want it. Anything is possible!” 

Amanda Casey, manager at Via, said: “Mandy Yasities has shown what hard work and determination can do, and the positive impact it can have on your life in all areas.” 

Peter Davies, General Manager at BRIO Leisure said: “Unlike other clubs our centres are fully staffed with professional, qualified and passionate staff that genuinely want to help users improve their lifestyles, be it through exercise, wellbeing or socially.” 

Mel Cairns, Personal Trainer and Fitness Class Instructor said: “Mandy is an amazing example of the work we can do at Brio, and her positivity and determination has been an inspiration. A little extra support is so effective when someone really wants to change their life, but I have to say the real work came from her.” 

Diane Gavin, Receptionist at BRIO Leisure, said: “I first met Mandy Yasities through signing her up on the pilot scheme, and I am so proud and amazed with how dedicated she is. She is an absolute credit to the scheme due to her determination and dedication, come rain or shine. It has been an absolute pleasure to see Mandy grow and get to know her, which has become a lovely friendship.” 

We’re proud to share our Hepatitis C micro-elimination impact report for 2021-2024. 

At Via, working towards eliminating Hep C in our services is a key priority for us and our teams have been working tirelessly through enhanced testing, diagnosis and support, and ensuring that treatment pathways are available and accessible. 

Working in partnership with Gilead Sciences, and as part of the Drug Treatment Services Providers Forum, we’ve reached many milestones over the past 3 years: 

• To date, 7 of our community service sites have achieved Hep C micro-elimination.  

• Our Via Harrow service was our first service to do this and the 6th London borough to reach this impressive goal.  

• So far, 2 of our service sites have also maintained this status after six months and we expect more to follow.   

• Between November 2021 and August 2024, our teams carried out 4,966 dry blood spot tests across our Via-led services. 

• We also helped 156 people who tested positive to start treatment so they could become free of Hep C. 

Carly who attends our Via Greenwich service told us: “Starting treatment was so easy. The whole process was very professional, I felt safe. So happy with the outcome, life changing, and painless compared to old treatments in the past. Thanks for all the support.” 

One of our team members in Cheshire West and Chester, Alice shared: “Often our clients can struggle with engaging with medical interventions, for various reasons. Being able to support our clients at Unity House in Ellesmere Port with accessing Hep C treatment has proved valuable and successful. I believe this is in part due to the fact the service is a safe space for the client. Having seen the reactions of successful treatment, the feeling of improved general health and increased likelihood of exploring health with professionals shows Hep C treatment has a positive impact on all areas of life.” 

Tom Sackville, Executive Director of Services at Via said: “It has been fantastic to see the huge progress that has been made towards the micro-elimination of Hepatitis C across Via. We know what this means for the quality of life and the wellbeing of those who use our services, so this is a really transformational achievement. I want to pay tribute to all of those within Via, as well as all the local and national partners, who have supported this work and we look forward to continuing to celebrate further progress in the near future.”   

Marlon Freeman, National Hepatitis C Coordinator at Via also commented: “I am pleased to present this report, which highlights the significant collaboration and organisational advancements Via has achieved in driving sustainable progress toward Hepatitis C micro-elimination. It is an honour to join our partners at the Gilead Hepatitis C Drug Treatment Services Provider Forum in showcasing the meaningful impact our work has had on the communities we serve. We trust this will serve as evidence of how partnerships with the NHS and third-sector health organisations can effectively enhance health outcomes and reduce health inequalities among those who use substances.”  

To find out more about Hep C micro-elimination, our partnership working, what we’ve learnt on our journey to micro-elimination and what’s next, check out our Via Hep C Impact Report here.

About Via

Via is a leading health and wellbeing charity that supports people to transform their lives for the better and helps them to manage their health and wellbeing independently. Providing safe and effective treatment and care around alcohol and drugs, mental health, smoking cessation, sexual health and employment support, Via supports thousands of people every year across the UK.

For more information about Via, visit: www.viaorg.uk or contact communications@viaorg.uk.

Pictured: Willesden Hub team members

Pictured: Via – New Beginnings – Brent colleagues at Cobbold Road.

We’re delighted to announce that Via – New Beginnings – Brent has successfully maintained its Hepatitis C micro-elimination status at the 6-month mark! This is Via’s second service to re-declare this status.  

A massive shoutout to everyone involved, especially to our partners Central Northwest London (CNWL) NHS Trust, and our BBV champions and nurses for their critical roles in this achievement. 

We’d also like to thank our amazing recovery practitioners, who diligently conduct dry blood spot tests for those starting their treatment journey with us, making sure that we break down barriers and reduce stigma along the way.  

Max Griffiths, Service Manager at Via said: “To have maintained Hep C micro-elimination 6 months after our initial announcement is amazing. It feels even more momentous than 6 months ago as it affirms that our pathways for testing and treating Hepatitis C are excelling. Well done to everyone in the New Beginnings partnership.” 

Abby Campbell, Sector Manager/Non-Medical Prescriber at CNWL said: “Reaching the six-month mark in our journey toward hepatitis C micro-elimination is a testament to the strength of our partnership. Together, we have transformed our commitment into action, and with each milestone, we draw closer to a future free of hepatitis C. Well done, everyone! Here is to continued collaboration, progress, and the promise of lasting change.” 

Marlon Freeman, National Hepatitis C Coordinator at Via said: “A job well done for the New Beginnings team in Brent on achieving this milestone again. It is amazing to see the perseverance in BBV testing through some challenges the past few months. A special recognition to our BBV nurse whose strong leadership has made re-declaring Hep C micro-elimination possible. Looking forward to 1 year of micro-elimination in 2025 and beyond.” 

If you live in Brent and would like to talk to someone about your own or someone else’s drug or alcohol use, please contact us on 020 8459 9510 or brent@viaorg.uk.

Pictured above: Via – West Berkshire team members

We’re delighted to confirm that our West Berkshire service has successfully achieved Hepatitis C micro-elimination!

Our team in West Berkshire have reached the following targets with the people who use their service:

• 100% of those in treatment have been offered a Hep C test
• 100% of people who currently inject or have previously injected have been tested for Hep C
• 90% of individuals who currently inject or have previously injected have been tested in the last 12 months
• 90% of people who were diagnosed with Hep C at the service have started treatment

By meeting these targets, we’re proud to report that Via – West Berkshire has formally achieved Hep C micro-elimination!

This success was made possible by the close collaborative partnership working with Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust, Thames Valley Operational Delivery Network, The Hepatitis C Trust, Gilead Sciences and NHS England.

We’d also like to thank all the staff and volunteers at Via – West Berkshire who have been working tirelessly to promote testing and treatment with the people they work with, on their journey to micro-eliminate Hep C.

Dr Matt Pearce, Director of Public Health at West Berkshire Council said: “This is fantastic news, a significant Public Health achievement, and a major step forward in protecting the health of our community.”

Dani Cawsey, Service Manager and Jon Nicholas, Clinical Lead at Via – West Berkshire said: “We are incredibly proud that, through our collective efforts and dedication, we have achieved micro-elimination of Hepatitis C in West Berkshire. Our team and broader care partnerships have worked with determination to ensure people are regularly tested and supported in treatment. This remarkable milestone underscores our commitment to a healthier, Hepatitis C-free future for our community. It is a testament to the hard work and determination of everyone involved.”

Eleanor Lyden-Vieten, Area Director at Via said: “I am proud to announce that West Berkshire has achieved a significant milestone in public health: the successful micro elimination of Hepatitis C. This achievement reflects hard work, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to improving the health and well-being of our service users. I would like to extend my gratitude to everyone involved in this monumental achievement.”

Gary Marlow, Hepatitis C Specialist AHP at Royal Berkshire Foundation NHS Trust said: “Micro-elimination is a major milestone for a service to achieve and shows that Via not only care about the outcomes of the community they serve but are willing to put in the hard work to ensure they deliver. Blood borne viruses (BBVs) such as Hepatitis C can drastically affect the lives of those infected, and their families, and often people remain unaware they have one before significant damage is done. Via’s dedication in ensuring those they serve, some of the people at highest risk of having BBVs, are promptly screened has doubtlessly made a significant impact in their community. Via have worked with the NHS to ensure people are tested, referred and treated promptly and this will have led to those affected benefitting from increasing life expectancy. The Royal Berkshire Hospital is truly proud of the work of Via staff and hope to support Via in their goals to remain micro-eliminated long term.”

Adedayo Leduwe, Thames Valley ODN Manager said: “The goal of the Hepatitis C (Hep C) Elimination Campaign is to reach micro-elimination within the community, for Via to reach this milestone is a big achievement, highlighting their dedicated efforts to ensure individuals are screened and tested. Hepatitis C is a blood-borne virus (BBV) that can damage the liver, and without treatment, it may lead to serious complications, including liver scarring (cirrhosis). In advanced cases, this can progress to liver failure, where the liver loses essential functions, or even to liver cancer. Via has partnered with the NHS to reach those in the community who have a higher risk of contracting BBVs, providing thorough screening, testing, and treatment. The Thames Valley Hep C Team is deeply proud of Via’s commitment to patient care and health improvement, and we are confident in their ability to maintain micro-elimination in the long term.”

Marlon Freeman, National Hepatitis C Coordinator at Via said: “I attribute the tremendous success of our West Berkshire service to the deep compassion the team show towards the individuals they support. In July 2023, we officially launched the Hep C micro-elimination project in West Berkshire, and it’s remarkable to see that, just a year later, they’ve achieved micro-elimination. We aim to use this success as a model at Via; congratulations to the entire team!”

If you live in West Berkshire and would like to talk to someone about your own or someone else’s drug or alcohol use, please contact us on 0300 303 4554 or west.berkshire@viaorg.uk.

Pictured: colleagues running for mental health awareness.

Staff and volunteers from across Via gave their wellbeing a boost by taking part in our inaugural 5K Walk/Run for Mental Health last weekend. 

The idea first came from our fantastic mental health first aiders but was embraced by people in different teams and services. Three separate events took place at the same time on the same day in Cheshire, Gloucestershire and London. 

Everyone involved was keen to promote the importance of people focusing on their own mental health, how the benefits of physical activity can positively impact how we all feel, and also getting together and having some fun! 

The event organisers, Michelle and Aman, shared their experiences of the day in London: 

“We had a fantastic day in Burgess Park. All who took part seemed to enjoy the day a lot, with some running and others walking the 5K in the beautiful surroundings. After completing the 5K, we stayed behind and sat around a table outside the cafe, enjoying a cup of coffee/tea chatting away about how well everyone did and how much fun the whole day was. Plenty of smiles and a recognition how important days like this are to mental health and wellbeing.” Michelle from our Property Team 

“I think everyone participated for the 5K walk/run appears to have enjoyed it. The park is very convenient and nice for a 5K walk or run; it has a beautiful lake with ducks. There were big smiles particularly when we sat by the café and chatting, which I think is so important for mental health and wellbeing.” Aman from our Finance Team 

Jenni from Via Gloucestershire told us about their local event in Cheltenham: “We had a beautiful autumnal day in Pittville Park for a walk/run around the lakes. We had some people walk and talk their way round and others took to running the scenic loop. Afterwards for people able to stay we enjoyed coffee and cake in the sunshine. A thoroughly enjoyable event bringing many people together who normally wouldn’t get the chance to just chat.” 

Jane from Via New Beginnings in Cheshire West and Chester said: “Our staff and volunteers took part in the mental health 5K run/walk at Delamere Forest. The day went well, the weather stayed dry and at the end we all had a coffee together.  One staff member said wish they could do more of these walks.” 

Other colleagues also shared: 

“This was such a lovely and important event to be part of – our first mental health and wellbeing awareness raising cross-organisational event…getting together socially with colleagues and friends from Via, all with the same value and aim of mental wellbeing and connection. It didn’t matter if we were running or walking or just being there.  It was simply wonderful and I’m looking forward to more events like these.”  Stacey from the Learning and Development Team 

“I loved being a part of this 5K walk, being with a wider Via work family really did put a great big smile on my face. For such a great awareness day, I felt connected with my colleagues, chatted and laughed lots while getting some exercise at the same time. This really did make me feel valued and such a friend group of amazing people. I’m looking forward to being a part of more events to come” Jean from Subwize 

“It was great! Hopefully we can do another one soon!” Liz from the People Team 

Congratulations to everyone who took part and a special thank you to all the local leads who help to coordinate this Via-wide event!

Local drug and alcohol support service, Via Greenwich has built an exciting new partnership aimed at providing valuable skills training to people who use the service. This collaboration was sparked back in May when the service manager visited local eatery The Chef House Kitchen, for an early lunch and struck up a conversation with Lee Vitali, the chef and owner of the establishment. 

During the visit, Vitali, a seasoned chef with 35 years of international experience, expressed his willingness to offer culinary training to people who get support at Via Greenwich. This conversation quickly led to developing a plan, reviewing the risks, and setting the stage for the collaboration. 

The timing was perfect for Ben, who had recently completed Via’s Next Steps programme. Next Steps supports people to identify their next move as part of their recovery journey, whether into employment, volunteering, or further education. After including his goal to get back into cooking in his Next Steps portfolio, he learned of the opportunity at The Chef House Kitchen and was eager to take it up. 

Ben interviewed at the restaurant and began his placement back in June. Reflecting on his experience, Ben shared, “I wanted to get out of working as a roofer. When I left school, I worked as a chef but didn’t like the hours. Recently, I thought I’d give it another go and wrote about it in my Next Steps portfolio. At the same time, this opportunity came up at The Chef House Kitchen. I felt excited and nervous about a new environment and people. I had an interview, which felt alright as Lee was very laid back and welcoming. I’ve been helping out and learning the extensive menu. I wanted the confidence to go out and work as a chef in the future. My confidence is growing all the time. It’s a safe environment – there’s no alcohol here, and Lee reassured me that if they go out after work in the future, they will not be drinking alcohol around me. I feel looked after and I’m getting fed and watered regularly!” 

Lee Vitali praised Ben’s performance, stating, “Ben is very helpful. He listens well, is eager to learn, and is very proactive.” 

This partnership highlights the positive impact that community collaboration can have on people seeking to improve their lives and pursue their passions. Through the support of Via Greenwich and The Chef House Kitchen, Ben and others like him are gaining the skills and confidence needed to thrive in new career paths. 

Subwize staff member enjoying last year’s Fun Day with children.

We’re delighted to announce that we’ve successfully retained our Subwize young people’s drug and alcohol service in the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham. 

Our Subwize service will continue to go from strength to strength, offering free and confidential support to anyone aged 25 years old or under who lives, studies or works in the local area.   

Also, as part of the new contract, Via will be launching refreshed and enhanced support for children and young people who are living with and impacted by parental problem alcohol and other drug use (also known as hidden harm).   

The Subwize team will be working even more closely with the young people they help to ensure that they lead on all aspects of the service, they are getting what they need, and that the service is as accessible and inclusive as possible.  

The new contract started on 1 September 2024 and will initially be for 4 years, with the option for two further 1-year extensions for a total of 6 years. 

Anna Whitton, CEO of Via said: ‘We’re so pleased to have been successful in this contract. The team have done such a good job and we’re really proud of everything the service has achieved so far and of course we’re all excited about the future for this fantastic service.” 

Gayleen Winn, Head of Young People’s Services at Via said: “The Subwize team provides an excellent service to young people and families in Barking and Dagenham and it’s so good that we can continue to do this. We’re going to build further onto the already successful work that we are doing and have some great plans for the next few years. Well done to the team for the work that went into securing the contract.” 

Amolak Tatter, Commissioning Manager for London Borough of Barking and Dagenham, said: “We are pleased that Via was successful in the tender to deliver the drug and alcohol service, and we are excited to be embedding the new contract which will continue to build on previous work.  The Subwize service will continue to ensure that young people across the borough are able to access the service and are supported throughout their treatment journey.” 

About Via

Via is a leading health and wellbeing charity that supports people to transform their lives for the better and helps them to manage their health and wellbeing independently. Providing safe and effective treatment and care around alcohol and drugs, mental health, smoking cessation, sexual health and employment support, Via supports thousands of people every year across the UK.

For more information about Via, visit www.viaorg.uk or contact communications@viaorg.uk.

For more information about Via – Subwize, visit: www.viaorg.uk/services/barking-and-dagenham-subwize/. 

We are an Investors in People finalist!

We are excited to announce that Via is a finalist for two Investors in People (IiP) Awards for 2024!  

We’ve been shortlisted in the following categories: 

• Third Sector Employer of the Year  
• UK Employer of the Year: Gold (250+ employees) 

After achieving our ‘Gold’ accreditation, we’re really proud that the important work we’ve started and continue to build on has been recognised and celebrated in this way. 

Marina Deeny, Director of People said: “We’re delighted to be an Investors in People Award Finalist. It reflects our ongoing efforts to foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and inclusivity where we live and breathe our values of care, be human, and do the right thing. We are proud of the progress we have made and are excited about the future as we continue to invest in our people and their development. Thank you to Investors in People for this incredible honour, and congratulations to all the other finalists.” 

About Via

Via is a leading health and wellbeing charity that supports people to transform their lives for the better and helps them to manage their health and wellbeing independently. Providing safe and effective treatment and care around alcohol and drugs, mental health, smoking cessation, sexual health and employment support, Via supports thousands of people every year across the UK.

For more information about Via, visit: www.viaorg.uk or contact communications@viaorg.uk.

Our Redbridge colleagues.

On 19 September 2024, our adult drug and alcohol service, R3 in Redbridge hosted its annual Recovery Awards at City Gates Conference Centre in Ilford. The event brought together service users, their loved ones, peer mentors, and Via staff for an inspiring celebration of recovery and achievement.

The ceremony honoured individuals who had completed treatment over the past year in Redbridge, with each receiving an award, followed by cheers and applause. It was an opportunity not only to celebrate the success of completing treatment but also to acknowledge the personal journeys and milestones reached along the way.

Service Manager, Helen O’Connor, who hosted the event, reflected on the significance of the occasion saying: “Maybe it’s because I do not have the experience of having children, but when I hear people use the expression ‘bursting with pride,’ I have never quite known what they mean. I do now. Looking back on the incredible achievements of our clients and the projects we have undertaken, it could not be clearer what a fantastic group of colleagues I am blessed to work with. While this event rightly celebrates our clients’ immense achievements, the unwavering support and tools you provide daily have helped them reach their goals with grace.”

Guest Councillor Mark Santos also delivered opening remarks, expressing admiration for the stories of resilience, agency and power shared during the event. He also highlighted the vital role of the Via team, describing them as “a team of people who have your back, people who believe in you.”

The event was also supported by key local figures Gladys Xavier, Director of Public Health, and Andy Hardwick, Senior Integrated Strategic Commissioner for Substance Misuse at Redbridge Council.

A particularly touching moment during the ceremony was the presentation of the Henna Khan Award, named in memory of a dedicated service user who sadly passed away. This award celebrates Henna’s spirit of determination and perseverance and was given to a deserving individual who demonstrated the same strength and commitment in their recovery.

The ceremony also recognised those who have completed our NOVA and Next Steps. Nurturing Opportunities Visions and Aspirations (NOVA) is a motivational course that helps individuals build confidence and develop strategies for positive life changes, while Next Steps supports people in identifying their next move, whether into employment, volunteering, or further education.

Participants who earned their OCN Level 2 Peer Mentoring accreditation were also honoured. This programme builds essential communication and mentoring skills, enabling individuals to support others in recovery and gain valuable work experience.

Volunteers were also celebrated for their invaluable contributions in supporting the R3 team, receiving bouquets of flowers.

Education, Training and Employment (ETE) Lead, Charlene Samuda spoke about the tremendous impact of the R3 women’s safe space over the past 12 months. She highlighted how many of the people who completed these courses wouldn’t have so easily done so if they didn’t have the option to take part in this space.

Following the inspirational and uplifting ceremony, guests enjoyed a delicious lunch and a chance to connect and socialise outside of the service.

For more about Via – Redbridge, visit: https://www.viaorg.uk/services/redbridge-r3/.

We’re delighted to announce that Via has become an organisational member of the Anti-Stigma Network.  

Established in 2023, it was created by a group of organisations coming together with a shared mission to improve understanding of the stigmatisation and discrimination experienced by people and families affected by drug and alcohol use.  

As one of currently 18 organisational members, we’re committed to: 

• Educating our staff, volunteers and stakeholders to understand and identify stigma. 

• Supporting our staff and volunteers to call out stigma and discrimination when they experience it or observe it. 

• Supporting the work of the network through the sharing of information and stories to better understand and fight stigma. 

• Raising the profile of the group within our own networks. 

Anna Whitton, CEO of Via and Via’s Anti-Stigma Network Champion, said: “This is a really important network for us and one that will support and strengthen the work of our diversity, equity and inclusion group. We need to continually reflect, listen and challenge ourselves to better understand, challenge and address stigma. Being part of the network is a key part of this.” 

You can find out more about Via’s accreditations, commitments and memberships here.

For more information about the Anti-Stigma Network, visit: www.antistigmanetwork.org.uk.