OffTheWall

No.25 Spring 2012

FRE E!

InformatIve

supportIve

creatIve

Little Devils?
The truth behind tranquillisers: use or abuse?
PLUS Spring Lamb, Poems, Crossword, Letters, Rant, 10 Questions

Midsomer Norton Rural Recovery Hub

New free and confidential Multi-Agency Drug and Alcohol Service for Midsomer Norton, incorporating employment and housing information and support
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COMES TO DHI
I was pleased to learn recently that DHI now offers free yoga classes on Wednesday evenings. As I am a participant in the weekly Monday morning Mindfulness Meditation group, I thought yoga might be a useful complement to this activity. According to Denise, our yoga coordinator, I was right, as she considers yoga and meditation to be inextricably interlinked, putting my description that they go together, innit? in more educated English. Anyone is welcome to join the group, which takes place every Wednesday from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. You dont have to have an interest or participate in meditation, as I do, and you need have no previous experience in yoga. I find the hour well spent, as the benefits are physical, mental and emotional and I leave feeling these benefits in every way. If you are interested in learning more, have a word with your key worker, if you have one, or simply turn up at 1730h on any Wednesday. You will be pleasantly surprised.

YOGA

Address: The Cottage, High Street Midsomer Norton BA3 2DP (behind the Midsomer Norton Sainsburys store)
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For further information about services available and opening times contact: 01225 329411

We look forward to seeing you!

The DHI Allotment

As a service user of DHI in Bath I was told of a gardening project on their allotment in Victoria Park and being a fan of anything natural I thought Id give it a shot.
I was introduced to Peter and his enthusiasm for all things green was very encouraging. I started coming on a regular basis and there was always a lot to do, from planting veggies to hard landscaping to just chilling out and relaxing by the pond, feeding the goldfish. I can highly recommend getting involved if you are in need of some meaningful occupation, and getting back on track, Im hoping to get into a gardening career and set up a little business selling veggies to people on low incomes.

If you want to get involved contact us on info@dhi-online.org.uk

Off The Wall No.25, Spring 2012

Hi there!
Welcome to our Spring Issue of Off The Wall. We have dedicated this edition to the use/ abuse of Tranquilisers. Weve included some interesting facts (from BAT), useful suggestions and personal experiences of using prescribed medication. Plus all the usual reviews, puzzles, jokes and recipes so enjoy reading and get involved if you want to write or contribute to the next issue...

annual report 2010/11

Lisa

bat 2010/11
battle against tranquillisers
Tudortrust
BAT Actual 2011.indd 37

contents
Not so tranquil? Battle Against Tranquillisers Tranquillisers, the myth 10 Questions Time for some new ideas! Puzzle Corner Spring Lamb Poems Window on the web Whats On at DHI: B&NES Whats On at DHI: South Glos. Whats On at DHI: Swindon Letters Page Useful Info The Back Page 4 7 8 10 12 13 14 16 17 18 20 21 22 23 24

Pictured clockwise fom above: Sheep farming secrets revealed on page 14; Zombie apocalypse - what would you do? See page 10; Fancy creative Writing? We do (page 12); Information from Battle Against Tranquillisers - page 7.
11/10/11 14:32:19

the

HT & LB Cadbury Charitable Trust

Patron Midge Ure Off The Wall Editorial Team Feature writers: Jim Timoney, Alan Cupit, Andrew Campbell, Colette Lyons, Kangy, Rachel Garvin, Lisa; Jessica Lovelace; Tanya Galic. Books & Poetry editor: Jim Contributors Steve Langston, Colin Young, Spike Check us out online: www.dhi-online.org.uk/clients/category/Off-The-Wall Get in touch! Off The Wall Magazine The Beehive, Beehive Yard, Bath, BA1 5BD. Tel 01225 329411 Email info@dhibath.org.uk. Copyright 2010 DHI. All rights reserved. The Group of Seven assist with production.

tranqui not so
Off The Wall contributor Jess tells us her story and ongoing experience of tranquillisers ...
go to the Bath D.H.I. group every Tuesday from 2.30 3.30 p.m. I have found the information I have learnt from the group to be a life-line in coming to understand the effects that being addicted to Benzodiazepines (Benzos) has on me. I took Valium first in 1994 for anxiety and after a short stay in hospital, (Psychiatric Unit) I have been prescribed them (and sleeping tablets) on and off for the past 18 years. I had a relapse in 2004 and my Benzo use really took off in the 7 years between 2004-2011, when anxiety and depression where (and to a certain extent, still are) my daily companions. Because of the excellent facilitating of the B.A.T. group by Colin Young, Support and Development worker, I have learnt that long term dependency on the pills causes panic, feelings of anger and anxiety, sleeplessness and depression and suicidal thoughts, also feelings of self harm, to name but a few. Agoraphobia is also a big one for me and I have found I am not as confident as I used to be becoming withdrawn and not as outgoing. This is where B.A.T. comes in. They have helped me make sense of the fact that I believed myself to be ill, when in fact I am suffering from withdrawal symptoms.
One of my questions was How can I be having withdrawal symptoms when I am on a steady dose? Answer: Your body gets used to the effects of the pills so quickly that, unless you keep increasing the dose, you start suffering withdrawal effects.

Off The Wall No.25, Spring 2012

Alcohol and Benzos are virtually interchangeable so it is important to limit alcohol consumption, or better still I have found cutting it out altogether is better as I am not going in and out of withdrawal so quickly.

I have learnt the hard way as we all do. I used to take a 2mg Valium before going to the supermarket or doing something that made me anxious, then after completing the task I would reward myself with a half or a pint of beer. The panic that I felt at going out was masked by the pill (Benzo) and the panic I felt (really the withdrawal effect as the pill wore off) was masked by the alcoholic drink. Later on when the effects of the drink wore off, I would go into withdrawal again, feel anxious or angry and agitated and tearful, or have thoughts of self harm. I would take a pill to calm myself down! And so it went on until I found B.A.T.

I have learnt the hard way as we all do. I used to take a 2mg Valium before going to the supermarket or doing something that made me anxious, then after completing the task I would reward myself with a half or a pint of beer

il?

Off The Wall No.25, Spring 2012

What is a Support Group like?

I have found the group to be friendly and welcoming. I was lucky in that my first year in a B.A.T. group, I was often the only person attending so I was able to talk to Colin one-to-one and in depth. I telephoned first and asked a lot of questions, I was very nervous at first and felt frightened I would be pressurised into reducing the amount I take before I was ready, in fact the reverse is true. With Colins help and also Una Corbett (over the telephone) and TABS another B.A.T. worker, I have been able to decide for myself. I still take 4 mg of Diazepam having recently made a 0.5 mg cut; I find I can contribute quite usefully to the group (which now sometimes

numbers 3 or 4 people.) My experience is helping newer members of the group to understand withdrawal, its effects and how not to take Benzos chaotically. Most groups are run by people who have come off pills themselves and understand how frightening this can be and how out of control and zombie like you can feel. Before I met B.A.T. Support and Development worker Colin, I was taking around 10 mg 15 mg of Benzos chaotically throughout the day/week. I was a mess and all over the place, severe anxiety attacks where commonplace. Once I stabilised on a regular dose taking 2.0 mg in the morning (I get up around 10.30/11.00 am.) I am a late

riser as I find that sleep helps me. I then took 2.5 mg at 4. Pm, 1 mg at 7.00 pm and around 5 mg at 10/10.45 pm. The anxiety attacks have lessened in intensity and frequency. The 4 sleeping tablets I was taking to knock myself out in the early evening and going to bed by 5.00 pm (supper at 4.00 pm, then I would eat again at 8 or 9.00 pm to get back to sleep when the tablets wore off) I put on a lot of weight going up to nearly 13 stone. I have since lost 2 stone by addressing issues of anger and food insecurities. This, amazingly, was before I found B.A.T. around 2009/210. I also tried Slimming World for 8 months and found the recipes and support helpful.
Continued over

6
Anyway, as I was saying I would knock myself out because I couldnt stand the loneliness of the evening and having disordered thoughts with stressful rhyming words and distorted vision. When I stabilised on a regular dose (and on the advice of Colin at B.A.T. converted all the Benzodiazepines into Diazepam,) my anxiety attacks very slowly and very gradually, lessened in intensity. Dont get me wrong, a year and a half after starting this journey, I still sometimes fear the evenings, and get scared a lot (a common Benzo withdrawal problem, fear of nothing and everything.) I spaced the Diazepam out regularly throughout the day and have continued to do so. From 15 mg daily in August 2010 (I have just made another 0.5 mg cut) my daily intake is just 4 mg as of February 2012. The next step after stabilising for at least 5 weeks, because I am having a tough time adjusting to this new dose as I crave the 0.5 mg cut, (psychologically as well as physically) will be to reduce it by 0.1 mg. I will be using liquid as this is easier to measure via a plastic syringe to place the syrup on to my tongue. I have developed a love/ hate relationship with the Valium, (Diazepam) really more of a hate/hate relationship. I take them to stop withdrawal effects of anger, feeling afraid, agrophobia etc., happening to intensely. (They are still there until I withdraw completely, then for months after; I will still feel the need for them. I still feel a need for a fix to chill me out, a pill fixation. Did you know that Benzos are harder to come off than Heroin.? I am well and truly addicted to a prescription drug. Before making the 0.5 mg cut at the end of January 2012, I had a stable 4 months and chose not to make a reduction between October 2011 and end of January/ beginning of February 2012 because December is a stressful time for me, (Christmas and the dark winter days.) My birthday is in January and I usually get upset about that too!!
What can I do about the effects?

Off The Wall No.25, Spring 2012

scrabble with him in the evenings which helps enormously.) I have found Una Corbett who offers phone help every day from 9.00 a.m. till 8.00 p.m., to be invaluable. With a no nonsense yet incredibly supportive and understanding ear, she has listened to me cry down the phone on many occasions.
How do I find out more?

It is important if you do decide to cut down, or even come off the pills, that you do so very slowly. It is extremely difficult which is why B.A.T. offers support groups and telephone help. For me personally, I find evenings stressful and they make me anxious, (although I am friends with a neighbour and play

Contact: Battle Against Tranquillisers (see the opposite page for more information) P.O.Box 658, Bristol BS99 1XP Office: 01179 966 3629 open 7 days a week, 9.00 a.m. till 8.00 p.m. Helpline:0844 826 9317 Email: una@notranx.fsnet.co.uk Website: www.bataid.org Home visits offered, either one to one or with you, your family or friends. B.A.T. will help me to withdraw from Benzos as comfortably as possible and help me make the necessary changes in life after withdrawal, plus receptors in my brain will heal themselves, SO THERE IS HOPE!
And finally:

Something called your GABBA receptors mend during withdrawal (best planned) from Benzos. This is very positive and gives hope of feeling better. The process can take years to cut down 1 mg by 1 mg, or however you do it. But good luck! You will get there! There is life after Benzos so watch this space. (And for my uncles and aunts who live outside of my home town of Bath in Bradford-upon-Avon and Bristol I will get to you one day.)

Off The Wall No.25, Spring 2012

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BAT factbox Some of the most common effects that can be produced by benzodiazepine tranquillisers and sleeping pills...
Feeling afraid Panic attacks Agoraphobia and claustrophobia Depression
Tudortrust
BAT Actual 2011.indd 37 11/10/11 14:32:19

OTW fOCUS

More about Battle Against Tranquillisers

he first appropriate comment relating to B.A.T. (Battle Against Tranquillisers) is that if a person is not motivated to stop taking their benzodiazepines or Z drug, they will not be pressurised to stop as this is likely to be counterproductive. The chances of successfully withdrawing the benzos or Z drug are improved when a persons physical health, psychological health and personal circumstances are stable. B.A.T.s mission statement is To lessen the harm caused by benzodiazepine tranquillisers and sleeping pills and drugs with similar effects B.A.T. aims To help those who are addicted to benzodiazepine tranquillisers and sleeping pills and drugs with similar effects, and who wish to withdraw from them, to do so as comfortably as possible and to help them make the life changes necessary after withdrawal. This clarifies the working practices for professionals who may be thinking about referrals and has been well received. B.A.T. Working Policy B.A.T. works within an Equal Opportunities policy, providing information and services for people who take/use benzos

annual report 2010/11

battle against tranquillisers

bat 2010/11
the

HT & LB Cadbury Charitable Trust

Sleeplessness Feelings of anger and anxiety Lack of concentration Feelings of unreality/ depersonalisation Lack of confidence Aches and pains (muscle tension) Stomach and bowel problems diarrhoea and constipation Rashes Giddiness Jaw pains Blurred vision Flu-like symptoms Exhaustion Many people wonder why they have changed from being happy and outgoing, to being over-anxious and unconfident.

What does B.A.T. Provide Support for people taking/using benzodiazepines. Support for people who have a Dual Diagnosis-where substance use/misuse co-exists with mental health problems. Training and presentations for a range of health, social services, voluntary sector and drugs and alcohol support professionals who work with people who take benzodiazepines and/or Z drugs. Small groups, users groups etc. are also catered for. These are individually tailored to the needs of each organisation/group. The charging takes account of organisations incomes. For low income/unfunded groups B.A.T. provides free sessions. Contact: 01179 966 3629 (open 7 days a week, 9.00 am til 8.00 pm) Helpline:0844 826 9317 Website: www.bataid.org

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OTW fEATURE

Off The Wall No.25, Spring 2012

Tranquillizers, the myth Anyone on these drugs any longer than 2-4 weeks as recommended is rarely tranquil...

The following excerpt is a reply to questions asked of Colin Young, a truly great guy who works for B.A.T. as a development worker.
thousands of innocent people being prescribed and kept on them way beyond what the guidelines suggest and worldwide people were experiencing the same problems with many being denied there symptoms and told its not the drugs causing problems that they had underling mental health issues or that there was no way out and it would be best to stay on them. Peoples lives are being ripped apart by the insidious nature of the Benzos, from the person on the script to family members and carers. THEY ARE NOT THE SOLUTION THEY ARE THE PROBLEM. This aroused a passion in me and although I obviously have compassion for people who choose to use them alongside other drugs I feel for the people who are addicted and whose lives are being wasted who had taken them in good faith prescribed to them. People using illegal drugs make a choice to take Benzos not like the others but there are many similarities such as both groups are prescribed for years when the British National Formulary (GP guidance manual) recommends 2 4 weeks in crippling anxiety which is routinely ignored and that the recommendations set out in 1988 by The Committee for the Safety of Medications guidance is regularly dismissed. I also knew that organisations like BAT were few and far between and had very little funding and that many GPs and drugs workers never knew what to do with people who were addicted to benzos. To me I feel like people deserve justice and have huge satisfaction to be working with an organisation who is not motivated by making money, making friends or making themselves sound good. BAT has made huge strides in highlighting the problems and is actively working with the Government on devising new policies and new methods on tackling the problem. However without the cooperation of the GPs many who still choose to freely prescribe on long term repeats then Im afraid the benzo problem which has been known as huge problem since the 1970s will be with us for a long time to come. My first experiences in the 80s with Benzos were made possible due to exposure it seemed everyone had them

y motivation to work for BAT - I heard Una the BAT coordinator speaking about Benzos and their complications and became very interested in BATs work as I knew that an addiction to them was far worse that class A drugs. Two interesting facts - they stop working and produce side effects when you are still on them and detoxing from them to fast can lead to long term withdrawal lasting months and even years, none of which happens on methadone or heroin. Many people drop out of treatment due to the misunderstanding and denial surrounding Benzos and many poly drug users come off all other drugs but want to continue self medicating with benzos. When I began to research the subject from personal experiences and reading medical journals as well as looking at what clinical guidance was written for professionals, the results were shocking. I learned that Benzos were the most talked about drug in the world and although I knew it was a huge problem within illegal drug using circles I wasnt aware there is also hundreds of

Off The Wall No.25, Spring 2012

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job as they are a prescribed drug and many people dont have to turn to criminality to fund their own slave trade when there are lots of GPs willing to supply on demand. I find people need inspired to take the risk and when that starts to happen and they have a light bulb moment and realise that the drugs they are taking are actually the inside enemy and they have become a slave to the insidious nature of benzodiazepines thats when they start to recover. For me drugs work is all about taking someone through their journey, informing and educating them about the drugs they are taking their chemical actions and the best way to address it alongside installing belief, and inspiring them to take the action to begin the journey of changing their lives.

and it was a funny new world. Prescription drugs were the new fashion. I know of lots of people who I grew up with ending up in jail serving sentences from 3 months to 15 years and couldnt remember a thing as they had taken mothers little helper the wonder drug. I wonder if those offences were actions of tranquillity. At the last time of looking there were just over 200 000 registered addicts in treatment in England. There are over 1.5 million addicted to prescription drugs with over 11 million benzo prescriptions written in 2011. Do I get satisfaction seeing someone come off? The most satisfying part is when someone knows that at BAT we know about Benzos we know what we are talking about and this gives service user knowledge that they are not alone and can

withdraw and find a life worth living. There is a lot of fear attached to withdrawing and they stand alone in that they are unique compared to other drugs. With other drugs you reduce, come off and get physically and mentally better in a few weeks maybe a month. Working with benzo dependence isnt an easy

Top 6 tips for stabilisation and withdrawal

l We always recommend that the person switching to valium as the half life makes withdrawal more comfortable as well as keeping cognitive & emotional functioning more stable. l Take them structured at roughly the same time and same amount each day which allows stabilisation. l We advise a 10% reduction of the whole dose ( 40mg would be a reduction of 4mg and 30mg would be a reduction of 3mg etc). Cuts should only continue once the person feels stable again and over any distressing withdrawal symptoms which can take up to 3 weeks. This allows people to monitor their own feelings and take charge of their own withdrawal. Forced or fast withdrawal often has negative consequences. l Believe in intrinsic health and emphasise that the problems are usually with the drugs and not the person. l The workers knowledge of all the factors concerning benzos is important due to tolerance, psychology, mimic of poor metal health and misdiagnoses which often results in poor advice leading to a vicious cycle. Use a benzo support group. l Internet buying is a problem as there are all sorts of mixtures with different compounds on the market some cut with blood thinners and others pig fatteners. Also there are lots of different brands which come in different strengths and some people dont realise what they are taking. For example someone may buy 2mg of alprazolam tablets not knowing this is equivalent to 20mg diazepam or 2mg clonazepam = 40mg diazepam. I have been told by service users that once they were subscribed that they regularly got emails which encouraged buy one batch get the other half price. Also many users get anxious, fearful and agoraphobic when they need more. Internet delivery means they dont even need to go out the front door to score making matters worse.

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OTW REGULAR

Off The Wall No.25, Spring 2012

20 10 Questions
Off The Wall speaks to Spike, DHI engagement worker...
Billy Connolly

Otis Redding

How and why did you get to this point in your career and why did you want to get into this type of work in the first place?

First of all I volunteered for an organisation called BADAS my previous work experience was predominantly around working with young adults with special needs and autistic spectrum disorders. As a result of this I was asked to apply for a full-time position as a specialist drug alcohol worker for adults with special needs and learning difficulties and disabilities. This post was originally funded for 18 months and during that time contract for obligations meant that I got to TUPE across from new highway to DHI. At DHI I applied for and was taken on as an engagement worker and my role includes street out reaches organisation out reaches for example with the big issue or Julian house needle exchanges in both Midsummer Norton and Bath as well as working in the drop-in and occasionally delivering training when required. So I am kept fairly busy at all times.
What do you find most rewarding about your job?

judgemental non-aggressive polite person to talk to me in 72 hours. This is a difficult part of the work I do and reminds me constantly of how lucky I am. keep my enthusiasm high and my interest keen.
What do you find most difficult about your job? In the event of a zombie apocalypse what steps would you take to ensure your survival?

I think the single most rewarding aspect of my job is that it is never boring because we do have such a diverse and interesting client group and the people I work with are both exceptional and talented I feel excited every morning on my way to work because I know everyday is different, this helps to

The most challenging aspect of this job is watching our client cope with prejudice heaped upon them from a society that often is not prepared to understand. It annoys me greatly when I see or hear anybody make a judgement about one of our clients without knowing a single thing about them. Ill have seen this many times during street outreach and drop ins. You should never judge another human being unless youve walked a mile in their shoes or spend an hour talking to know their history unfortunately this narrow-mindedness often leads to negative responses to many of our clients. I am fully aware that many of our clients can be challenging but we do not have the right to judge them. Somebody said to me recently in the needle exchange one of the reasons I come in here is because its one of the few places where I dont get greeted with a negative response or sworn at and sometimes youre the first non-

Oh you sure the apocalypse hasnt already happened? Im sure most of my train rides home are a part of a zombie apocalypse movie!
What are your career and life goals?

In my career I would love to be better qualified and have often looked at doing a degree, unfortunately I have no idea what I would do a degree in so thats on hold until I can make my mind up. Long-term my dream career move would be to return to massage and sports therapies and have my own clinic with my own client base but thats a bit of a pipe dream at the moment. But its good to have dreams.
What is you favourite book, film, album and plate of food?

Favourite book The Ascent of Man, a truly fascinating read about where we came from and how we have evolved over millennia. Favourite film there have been so many good ones but as I have to choose just one I would one probably go with Shawshank Redemption.

Off The Wall No.25, Spring 2012

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unforeseen problems, but the one policy I would change as prime minister would be to give greater funding around caring in the community and support for people who genuinely need a higher level of specialist input. I have been involved many times in the past in going into peoples houses and lives and seeing the devastation that can easily be avoided with a little more funding with a little more time given to individuals to maintain and improve their standard of living and its not rocket science its about giving professionals time and opportunity to proactively improve somebodys well-being.
Who would be your perfect dinner party guests?

Favourite album is probably the toughest decision to make, at least on Desert Island Discs you get 8 to choose... today it would probably be Otis Reddings Greatest Hits but tomorrow it may be the Sex Pistols, so this one I really struggled on. Favourite plate of food something quite simple boiled bacon, new potatoes and cabbage, carrots and white sauce. Anybody who knows me will be aware that I love food and will eat anything.
In twenty words describe your perfect night out?

plus me and my partner. Billy Connolly for humour, next to Jackie my partner, next to Stephen Fry (all-round good value), Annie Lennox for both music and social conscience next to Nelson Mandela youd be mad not to invite him wouldnt you? And for the experience of a lifetime I would sit my 15-year-old daughter next to him to learn the value of humanity and finally myself. Lets be honest the conversation would be interesting and the listening would be even more so.
What were your childhood aspirations and which ones have you fulfilled?

Good food and live music, surrounded by the people I love. A bit cheesy I know but hey, my choice
If you were PM what laws would you introduce or change?

Changing the law is a massive undertaking and the consequences of changing any law often lead to many

This could be a really big list quite easily and then theres the dilemma do you go for humour or do you go for interesting/ challenging conversation? So I will limit myself to 6 guests

This may sound a little cheesy but all I have ever wanted is to be happy yeah okay, no throwing up and it sounds sickly. But I do have a plan in place and that is that I promise myself everyday a real rich deep laugh at something, hey it works for me! Try it laughing really works. OTW

Need to get something off your chest? Its time for the Off The Wall rant!
l If the fuel tax is going up regardless dont be surprised when everything increases in price. Transport is our lifeline for supplies of food, emergency services, travel etc, etc. Im no politician but why not just leave the cost as it is? Ok, I know the proposed rise is only 3p but that soon adds up, especially for businesses that we all rely on. If the cost was frozen however, that would leave money circulating around our country which would benefit us all in one way or another instead of being swallowed up by the government coffers to be distributed at their will, and Im not referring to foreign aid! Seems simple and logical to me. While Ive got my breath back, what about young drunkenness on the streets? Costs an absolute fortune apparently! Well, heres my idea. Just stop all small shops and big supermarkets selling the stuff! Only allow pubs (not many left), restaurants and selected off licenses to sell it. While were on it ban children from licensed premises. Might appear a little harsh but I have seen children in pubs on several occasions being severely chastised for being bored and wanting to simply go home while the adults are happy to carry on with their drinking. In my view this leads to them seeing it as the norm. Alan Cupit

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OTW fEATURE

Off The Wall No.25, Spring 2012

Time for some new ideas?

Off The Wall contributor Collette definitely thinks so. Heres her thoughts on new activities offered by DHI ... let us know your thoughts.
Music Therapy A regular music Poetry Reciting and writing. Creative Writing Group Could

group offering an array of various musical instruments for people who cannot play an instrument, but would like to give it a bash. Music Group For people with some level of competence with an instrument. Drumming Class Give it a bash. Drama Group I missed out on learning drama at school and I would love to experience a drama group. Art When DHI Bath had its open day, for a few weeks beforehand, a large white backdrop/sheet was pinned to a wall. A display of paints/brushes/pastels/ crayons etc. was made available. So many people displayed fantastic artistic abilities with either painting/drawing/graffiti art etc. Everyone said it would be good to drop in and add to a colourful collage on a daily basis.

be fun.
Open Mic Maybe twice a year

or something, no big deal like inviting the Mayor etc. just clients exhibiting their talents to each other. Dance Group Zumba or Five Rhythms would be fun, or how about a bit of Line Dancing or Tap Dancing? A Joke Board It might raise a smile here and there i.e. when is a door not a door? When it is ajar. Days Out Wouldnt it be great if DHI could get a minibus and take us clients on outings? Dyslexia No More A.R.R.O.W. is a fantastic new approach for people with Dyslexia. A.R.R.O.W. teaches people very quickly indeed. What would normally take 16 months of tuition, can be attained in 4

weeks using the A.R.R.O.W. technique!! The process encourages the person learn via their own voice. www.self-voice.com/ Lotions and Potions Learning to make our own moisturisers, soap etc. with natural ingredients such as Aloe Vera etc. (Eye of newt, wing of bat sort of thing)

Monochrome swap shop!

Off The Wall needs our readers support. Wed like the Beehive to start a freecycle service for staff and service users, and we need a few of you to get behind this in order to make it happen.
We will advertise unwanted electrical items (we already have dvd players, phones, and video recorders - all in working order) that we want to offload. Like the sound of that? Then let a member of staff at the Beehive know youre interested, and hopefully we can get started before next issue.

Off The Wall No.25, Spring 2012

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Andrews 90s quiz
Events 1. In which year did Iraqi forces invade Kuwait? 2. In 1992 a series of riots occurred in which U.S. city? 3. In 1991, Latvia gained its independence from Russia. What is Latvias capital city? 4. Which space telescope was launched in 1990? 5. Nelson Mandela became the first black president of South Africa in which year? TV 6. In Roseanne, who played Roseannes husband? 7. Which American comedy series brought fame for Will Smith? 8. In The Simpsons, what was the name of the Minister of the First Church of Springfield? 9. Which actor played Doctor Doug Ross in American medical drama E.R.? 10. Which 1990/91 series centred on the investigation by FBI Special Agent Cooper into the death of popular teenager Laura Palmer? Music - No.1s 11. Which all-girl group had eight No. 1s in the 1990s, including Wannabe, Say Youll Be There and Viva Forever? 12. In 1995, there was a highlypublicised battle for the No. 1 spot between two Britpop bands, which was won by the song Country House by which group? 13. Which 1991 song by Bryan Adams holds the record for the most consecutive weeks at No. 1, with 16 weeks? 14. Chers 1991 No. 1 The Shoop Shoop Song (Its in His Kiss) was from which film starring Cher, Bob Hoskins, Christina Ricci and Winona Ryder? 15. In 1997, Elton John reached No. 1 with a single commemorating the death of Princess Diana, a new version of which of his 1970s singles?

Puzzle corner
Good luck with our cryptic summer puzzles... Spring crossword
1a & 1d 2d 3d 4d

fUN!

2a

3a

5d

4a

6d

7d

8d

5a

6a

7a

ANSwERS oN PAGE 22

Across 1 Madam flutters by in Winnie-the-Pooh 2 What youll get from midges this Spring 3 This tabloid is hot 4 What soldiers do in Spring 5 Plant your vegetables and they do this in Spring 6 On a day like this you can see forever 7 Religious holiday in Spring

Down 1 Honey found on trees 2 The rivers high in Spring 3 Chas and Dave like to talk 4 Clear this up after spring picnic 5 Singing in the rain 6 No fake fishing here 7 Came second to the tortoise 8 Chocolate Easter

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Off The Wall No.25, Spring 2012

spring Lamb!
fEATURE Andrew: How many sheep (approximately) are in the flock? Tim: 198; that includes rams, lambs and ewes. A: Do you have a sheepdog? If so,

Off The Wall contributor Andrew Campbell gets out and about and talks to local sheep farmer Tim Earle.

what is the sheepdogs name?

T: Yes I do, she is named Floss.

She is a border collie.

A: How big is the farm? T: 220 acres A: How do you shear sheep? T: You get hold of the ewe, sit

her in the upright position with her bottom to the ground and her head upright, then using the shears you shear the ewe of her wool.
A: Do you sell the fleece to be

sheep. It has to be done at a licensed abattoir.

A: Do you have, or would you consider, a farm shop? T: No I would not. The farm is in the wrong location. A: Are sheep the only animals you keep on the farm? T: No, we also keep chickens. A: Do you have a favourite mutton or lamb dish? T: Shepherds pie. A: How many babies can a sheep carry at one time? T: Usually two, but they can have three. A: How old is hogget, lamb and mutton?

T: Hoggett is very mature lamb

and mutton is a mature ewe

A: Is the film Babe an accurate

turned into woollen garments? T: Yes we do, to the Wool Marketing Board. We usually make a small amount of money.
A: Does it make commercial sense to be a sheep farmer? T: It does make sense, but profits are slim. A: Do you have to deal with sheep rustlers? T: Thankfully, no A: Which breed of sheep do you have? T: Texel. A: Do you have to periodically slaughter some of your sheep? T: It is against the law for a farmer to slaughter his own

representation of sheep farming? T: Yes it is an accurate representation, except for the sheep pig.
A: As a sheep farmer, do you make a mint? T: No!

Pics: Hazel Campbell

Off The Wall No.25, Spring 2012

15

OTW REGULAR

Poetry corner
Tribal Voices
By Collette Lyons Now the blue sky morning mist becomes lighter still, paler by the unseeing second, ghostly trapping every nerve, shredding every fibre to obtain a resonance of youth again. And as I sit in my morning calm sipping tea with increasing balm it is as Id have it if I were watching me; as it is I am alone with no company. Sounds blocked out no noise permit I as with ear-plugs in I continue the quiet with which I shared the night. Is it permitted to share this peace with no-one but myself? And as the day dawns, light increasing still, it is as Id have it be. Tribal voices saying what? Putting politicians on the spot, asking questions, seeking answers, not a rabble of unruly chancers. And so we gather here in this place, to interlace, to weave our web, be the ebb, be the flow, dear lord, make it so. Mr Government, off the cuff, Ive had enough, lies and deceit, not at all neat, no ebb, no flow, where do we go, from here? our Earth struggling for breath, nation slaughters nation, intent upon death. Anguish prevailing, families wailing, in grief. Sons and daughters gone, one by one, slaughtered and killed, Earth made red by the blood they have spilled Dwindling forests, disappearing cultures, the west like vultures, ripping and tearing, not really caring, sucking Earth dry. Stop it! Stop it! I hear a cry, no a scream. How can you be so mean, so cruel? Mr Government, you are a fool, if you think you can spit in the face of the human race. You will be stopped! Cropped! Pulled up short, lanced, like a big ugly wart. Miracles you know have happened before. All through history, mystery, Imagination throughout every nation. The unexplained has always remained part of our lives. Magic spells, wishing wells, intonation, all a part of this creation. Subtle nuance, a weaving dance, a song from the heart, a prayer, to truly care. To see each other as sister and brother. Weave a web that is strong and true, our vision and strength will be our glue We will not fail, to prevail, against you Mr Government. You know the score, miracles have happened before. So here we are, here in this place. Let us weave our spell, with dignity and grace. We need to see, harmony, amongst ourselves, stand together with magic of elves. For we are the horse shoe nail, we are the Holy Grail, shining for all to see, a multicultural Synergy. I for one do not dance, to the song of lies and deceit, nor tap my feet to the song of war, and whatsmore... I never will.

Morning
By Jessica Lovelace

Tea like Now

By Jessica Lovelace I sit and drink Rooibosh and lemon tea Filtered through so easily I sit and drink my tea you see, All day long, and pee and pee.

16

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

A darts player wanted to get onto the gravy train. His name was Eric Bisto.
A Formula 1 driver decided to take up hairdressing after he retired. He became known as Hairton Senna.

A man fell in love with a woman from Blackpool. It was an illuminating experience.

A man wanted to buy a car but he couldnt aFord it.

A couple decided to go to the Glastonbury Festival for the first time. They had a very in-tents experience.

Whats a tortoises favourite petrol company? Shell.

What did the car-loving cowboy say? Audi.

A thief decided to burgle the house of an art collector, but had second thoughts when he saw the Constables.

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

17

Wednesday 26 september
An excerpt frpm Off The Wall contributor Lisas prison diary.
t last, I get round to putting pen to paper. Ive been in for 26 days now. When I arrived at HMP Bronzefield on Thursday 1st September 2011, I was dying for a fag. I had been in the cells under the Crown Court in Hove since 2.15pm. After all the paperwork and waiting for the G4S van I finally arrived at 9.24pm. I know this because a minute after you arrive, you are taken into this room where an Officer takes your picture and asks the relevant questions to make sure they have the correct offender. I dont remember what questions they asked me but it was very quick and I was handed my ID card. Im in shock and trying to take in all that is happening... I was taken into a room with a TV and some other prisoners. Two of the girls asked me if this is my first time in prison. I say yes. Someone else asked me if I wanted anything to eat. I say no. I then get taken into a room and introduced to the Connections team who hand me a load of leaflets and reel off the spiel... Here is your Rough Guide to Bronzefield booklet, this gives you some basic information but you will spend your first five days on Induction... Its late and still all I can think of is getting to my cell where I know I will be able to smoke. Im starting to get very irritable and snappy.

The nurses eventually come to get me from the waiting room. They take a piss test to see what drugs I have in my system. Everything comes up as positive I was surprised that THC (grass) came up coz I couldnt remember the last time I had a spliff. Probably in Egypt, but that was in May! They ask me the usual questions. I hate having to go through my drug history, when I started, what drugs I took, how I took them, how much etc... I tell them that I was clean (completely abstinent for nearly 7 years). Oh My God I am on the edge of exploding at this point. So angry angry with all the questions, angry with ending up in jail, angry that I ever let my recovery go, angry with the way the girls are checking me out. I just wanna go to my room and be left alone. When I finally got out of that

room with the nurses, I am with bags in the hall and the Officer tells me that I will need to wait for this other girl to have her clinical assessment, and THEN we can go to the House Blocks. Its past 10pm by this time so I give the 5ft-red-eyed-girl with skin-headhaircut a dirty look with a smile and an OK! She looked like she had been crying so I feel slightly sorry for her. Slightly! My foot is tapping as I stare at the television secured firmly into the corner of the waiting room. Time creeps by sooo slowly. Im exhausted. I am all talked out. Ive had questions fired at me like bullets. Zero emotion yet they need to know about any trauma, suicide attempts, overdoses, relationships... I answer like I am reviewing a movie I watched, yet this is no film, this is my life!

18

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

Whats on at DHI

Bath & ne somerset services

DHI Bath The Beehive, Beehive Yard, Bath, BA1 5BD

DHI Bath The Beehive, Beehive Yard, Bath. Telephone: 01225 329411, Fax: 01225 334734, info@dhibath.org.uk DHI Information Takeaway 31 Monmouth St, Bath BA1 2AN. Tel: 01225 334185 (Reach floating support services at the information take away on 01225 422156), fax: 01225 465774, info@dhibath.org.uk for information on the Genesis Trust contact Carey or Denise on 01225 463549 Monday
10.30-12.00 1.002.30 5.30 - 7.30

Thursday Mindfulness Group Abstinence Group Monday Clubs Book Club, film Night, Games Group football (At Percy Community Centre)
11.0012.30

6.45 - 8.15

1.00-2.30 3.00-4.00 6.00 - 7.00 6.00-7.00

Alcohol Education & Change Programme (4 Weekly Cycle) Positive Change

Acupuncture

family Group Relapse Prevention (Abstinence Support Group)

Tuesday Friday
10.30-12.00 1.00-2.30 3.00-4.30

Womens Group Positive Change Alcohol Education & Change Programme (4 Weekly Cycle)

12.00-1.00 1.00-2.30 3.00-4.00

Off The Wall Abstinence Group

Acupuncture

Saturday Wednesday
12.00-2.00 1.00-2.30 3.00-4.00 5.30-6.30 10.00-2.00 10.30-11.30

Gardening Group Lifestyle Workshops

Acupuncture

Gardening Group
Acupuncture

Yoga

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

19
Open group Positive Change Group: What pleasures does my drug use bring? ... what difficulties does it take away? ... What problems does it add to my life? ... What good things does it take away? ... How can I develop my confidence and coping skills? ... How will I keep this going? Structured 6 week course for clients who are working towards either controlled use or a drug free lifestyle. Intake dates for this group are available from reception. Alcohol Education and Change Groups (4 weekly programme starting on the first Thursday of each month) Week 1 - Alcohol Education Group A group offering information on alcohol, exploring the impact on health, social and personal functioning. Weeks 2, 3 and 4 - Alcohol SelfDirected Change Group: 3 session structured group, to elicit motivation and discuss strategies for making changes in drinking. Drop In support group for abstinent clients. Womens Group Women only support group. Battle Against Tranquillizers (BAT) A support group for people wishing to make changes to their use of tranquillizers. Family Group A support group for family members affected by anothers substance use. Monday Club A social activity group which meets weekly. This includes a film club, book club and games evenings. Gardening Group Award winning service user led allotment project Off The Wall Service User led magazine group. NB Anyone wishing to attend groups needs to ensure that if they are still using drugs that they have not used since midnight the night before.

Groups & Services

Auricular acupuncture Acupuncture sessions are open to anybody experiencing problems with drugs or alcohol,no need to book just turn up a little before the session start time and come as and when youd like. Sessions are also open to family members and carers. DHI Beehive Drop in and internet caf 9-5 pm Monday - Friday, Saturday 10 1pm Abstinence Group: What is the next step? ... How can I increase importance without adding stress? ... How can I build a lifestyle to support my recovery? ... What are my triggers and how can I manage these? ... How can I prevent lapses becoming relapses? This group aims to support people who are drug and alcohol free and who are committed to remaining abstinent. It is an open group that clients can join at any time Lifestyle Workshops: Series of single issue support groups focusing on recovery. Topics include: Becoming Assertive Improving Self-Esteem Better Relationships Managing Stress and Anxiety Mindfulness group : A meditation group to help with managing emotions and cravings.

DHIs award-winning allotment

20

Off The Wall No.18, July/August 2010

Whats on at DHI

south Glos. services

Tower Road North Warmley
DHI South Gloucestershire South Gloucestershire Drug & Alcohol Service, 130 Tower Road North, Warmley BS30 8XN. Freephone: 0800 0733011, Tel: 01454 868750, Fax: 01454 868755, Info@dhisouthglos.org.uk Monday
1:00-2:30pm 6:30-7:30pm

The Bungalow Yate

Yate Treatment Centre The Bungalow, 24a North Road, Yate BS37 7PA. Tel: 01454 273643, info@dhisouthglos.org.uk Monday
11:00-12:00pm 12:00-1:00pm 1:30-3:00pm 3:00-5:00pm 1:00-5:00pm

Open Group Peer Support Group

Acupuncture Meditation Engagement Group Cannabis Awareness & Information Session Through Care DROP IN

Tuesday Tuesday
1:00-3:00pm 3:00-5:00pm 5:00-6:00pm 6:00-7:30pm

Alcohol Course Cannabis Awareness & Information Session Acupuncture Relapse Prevention

11:30-12:30pm 1:00-2:00pm 2:00-4:00pm 7:00-9:00pm

Acupuncture Open Group ACE Group family Group

Wednesday
1:00-2:30pm 1:00-4:00pm

Wednesday Into Action Computer Access

11:00-1:00pm 2:00-3:00pm 3:00-4:30pm 4:30-5:30pm 5:30-6:30pm

Thursday
10:00-12:00pm 1:00-3:00pm 7:00-9:00pm

BAT DROP IN ACE Group family Group

Grandparents Group 1st Wednesday of every month BAT DROP IN Induction Course Acupuncture Open Group

Thursday
1:30-2:30pm 3.00-4:30pm 6:00-7:00pm 7:00-8:00pm

Friday
10:00-11.30am 10:30-12.00pm 11:30-12:30pm 1:00-2:00pm 2:00pm 2:30-4:00pm

Induction Course Womens Group Acupuncture Meditation Healthy Lunch Club Engagement Group

Healthy Lunch Club Into Action Relapse Prevention Peer Support Group

Friday
10:00-12:00pm 10:00-11:30pm 12:00-1:30pm

Housing Clinic By appointment only Alcohol Course Alcohol Course

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

21

Whats on at DHI

swindon services
The Old School House Swindon
DHI Swindon The Old School House, Maxwell St, Swindon SN1 5DR. Freephone: 0800 9704830, tel: 01793 617177, fax: 01793 486591, info@dhiswindon.org.uk Monday
11.00-1.00pm 11.30-1.00pm 1.00-2.00pm Cooking class

The Boxing Gym

There is access to the boxing gym above the Old School House. Contact us for more information.

1:1 Sessions
Other appointments outside of these times are available to you at a place of your convenience.

Stimulant Group workshop Basic sewing class

Tuesday
11.00-12.30pm 12.30-2.00pm

Triage
An initial assessment can be completed over the phone Monday - Friday 9.00am - 5pm. Call us on 0800 970 4830. This number is free from call boxes and landlines.

Pre-treatment workshop Cannabis Group workshop

Wednesday
11.00-12.30pm 1.00pm

Relapse Prevention workshop Acupuncture and relaxation

Thursday
1.00pm 2.00pm-4.00pm

Acupuncture and relaxation Allotment

Friday
11.30-12.30pm 1.00pm

Positive Change workshop Acupuncture and relaxation

22
OTW REGULAR

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

Letters page
Time to get it off your chest?
In issue 24 we had rthe following letter ... Dear OTW

to paper or tapping on your keyboard. We look forward to receiving some of your writing in future.
Dear OTW

Hi there - I enjoy writing stories in my spare time and I wondered if Off The Wall would have room for something if I sent some in. Also, does the magazine offer any creative writing courses or do the editorial team have any suggestions or tips to help with my writing? Reader response... Dear Reader, Its fantastic that you enjoy writing so much. We encourage all stories and you are welcome to come and join our team on Friday at the DHI offices in Beehive Yard in Bath (12-1pm) for our weekly meetings. DHI offer referrals to creative writing courses. They are facilitated through Bath City College, via Space2 at Julian House. We suggest that you get a referral through your Key worker. These courses are for those in the Bath area. Your Key worker will know about similar courses in your area. Many of our service users benefit from the creative outlet which writing can provide. So, keep putting pen

Im an avid reader of your magazine - I pick it up whenever I can find it. I have a few questions and ideas though ... how often do you come out? I havent seen a new one since last year - you havent stopped have you? Assuming you havent, have you ever thought of hosting an online forum? It might e something you can do on Facebook? I only say as the bits of the magazine I find the most interesting tend to be other service users stories of their experiences of difficult times. I find I can relate to these stories and, as the saying goes ... a problem shared... Sincerely, Bad Blake
Dear OTW

couch, but have you any idea I could get a dvd player for a couple of quid, or maybe some lights. Hope to hear back, Tom OTW response... Dear Reader, Turn to page 12 and see our plans for the Monochrome Swap Shop - lend us your support and hopefully we can get a DVD player to you very soon.
Dear OTW

Hi there - Ive just got my own place after a long wait - I never expected it to happen! But I have a problem. I dont have much furniture, any electrical goods (apart from an ancient TV) or much else. Ive a few books to keep me company, and Ive been told Ill be getting a

I am constantly worrying. I find if I am thinking I cannot stop thinking the worst, like Im always thinking about the future and that itll be bad. That my evenings will be spent in bed from 5pm after Ive eaten and then I wont sleep at night. I find it very hard to go out on my own in the evenings and socialise.

Got a problem? Get in touch! Off The Wall Magazine The Beehive, Beehive Yard, Bath, BA1 5BD T 01225 329411 E offthewall@dhibath.org.uk. Each issue we will be printing readers problems and letters, and rather than giving our response we want our readers to offer their advice. So if you can help this issues readers, please write in... And dont forget, theres a crisp tenner for the best response each issue. Answeres to Andrews 80s quiz on page 13 EVENTS 1. 1990; 2. Los Angeles; 3. Riga; 4. Hubble; 5. 1994 TV 6. John Goodman; 7. The Fresh Prince of Bel Air; 8. Rev. Lovejoy; 9. George Clooney; 10. Twin Peaks MUSIC No. 1s 11. The Spice Girls; 12. Blur; 13. (Everything I Do) I Do It For You; 14. Mermaids; 15. Candle in the wind

Check out www.dhi-online.org.uk for more useful information

useful numbers
National contacts
Alcohol concern 0207 9287377 Alliance, the (methadone) 02083 744395 Cannabis Hemp Information Club 0145 8835769 Cocaine www.cocaine.org Date Rape Drugs www.roofile.com Drugscope www.drugscope.org.uk Drug Education Training 0117 99415810 Ecstasy.Org www.ecstasy.org Erowid www.erwid.org Good Drugs Guide www.thegooddrugsguide.com Green Party Drugs Group 0171 7370100 Hemp UK 0186 5311151 Hit www.Hit.org.uk Howard league for Penal Reform 0171 2817722 Justice for Woman 0181 3403699 Lifeline www.lifeline.org.uk Mainliners 0201 5825434 Medical Marijuana foundation 0157 9346592 National Alcohol Helpline 0345 320202 National Drugs Helpline 0800 776600 National Sexual Health/HIV 0800 5671123 Oxfordshire User Team 0800 0320829 Project LSD 0171 2881500 Release www.release.org.uk/bust.html Re-Solv www.re-solv.org Traffasi 02085 339563 Transform Box 59, 82 Colston Street, Bristol. BS1

Local contacts
DHI Head Office and Bath Area Office The Beehive Beehive Yard, Bath, BA1 5BD tel 01225 329411 fax 01225 334734 email info@dhibath.org.uk DHI Information Takeaway 31 Monmouth St Bath BA1 2AN tel: 01225 334185 (Reach floating support services at the information take away on 01225 422156) fax: 01225 465774 email: info@dhibath.org.uk DHI South Gloucestershire South Glos. Drug & Alcohol Service 130 Tower Road North Warmley BS30 8XN Freephone: 0800 0733011 tel 01454 868750 fax 01454 868755 email info@dhisouthglos.org.uk DHI Swindon The Old School House Maxwell St Swindon SN1 5DR Freephone: 0800 9704830 tel 01793 617177 fax 01793 486591 email info@dhiswindon.org.uk DHI Kingswood Office 10 Kingswood Foundation Bristol, BS15 8BD Yate Treatment Centre The Bungalow 24a North Road Yate BS37 7PA Tel: 01454 273643 Email: info@dhisouthglos.org.uk