Family Recounts DAFS Support Amidst Joe’s Addiction Struggle

Prior to developing a drug addiction at 14, Joe was described by his family as “relaxed and jovial”. His mother and sister reported that his addiction led to a “switch” in his personality before his death at 18. The family sought assistance from DAFS (Drug & Alcohol Family Support), a support group operating in Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire that assists individuals affected by alcohol and drug addiction. Joe’s sister, Maddie Nunn, recalled her younger brother as “really lovely.” She stated, “He was the baby of the family… so chilled,” adding, “He was a homebody. Funny, but quiet and sensitive growing up.” As Joe’s addiction intensified, his family observed a transformation, noting he became angry and violent. Samantha Nunn, Joe’s mother, stated that DAFS provided crucial support to the family during the final year of Joe’s life. She recounted, “During that last year we were living in complete chaos from day to day. That fear factor of what’s he going to do, what’s going to happen to him.” She further added, “Having the outlet of DAFS was so important. You came away feeling lighter.” An inquest into Joe’s death is currently awaited by his family. DAFS, established six years ago, recently obtained charitable status. The organization has since provided assistance to more than 900 families. Lynn Fox, 76, a co-founder, commented that families are frequently overlooked in the context of addiction. She remarked, “It’s a massive problem. There can be mental health issues, in some cases there’s physical abuse.” Fox elaborated, “People are aware of addiction, of what an addict is. But they’re not aware of the knock-on effect for parents, for siblings.” The organization provides both individual and group support sessions, alongside establishing confidential social media communities for families to connect. DAFS operates on an annual budget of approximately £3,200, with the majority of these funds allocated to IT services. Attaining charitable status can grant organizations recognition, which may facilitate fundraising efforts. Furthermore, this status can provide tax advantages and potential eligibility for grant funding exclusively available to charities. Data from Bedfordshire Police indicates that nearly one in 10 individuals in Bedfordshire use illegal drugs. A spokesperson for the police force stated, “Illegal drugs are the driver for much of the violence and exploitation we deal with as a police service every day.” Ms. Fox commented, “There’s still a lot of work to do. There’s still a lot of people out there who need our service.” She added, “We’re supporting at least 300 active families at the moment. We offer a safe space. People realise they’re not alone anymore, there’s a lot of people out there in the same position.” For news from Beds, Herts, and Bucks, follow on Facebook, Instagram, and X. To submit a story, email eastofenglandnews@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 169 1830. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.