Derby Choices Programme

Derby Young PeopleChoices Programme

Helping young people make safer choices around drugs, alcohol, and gambling.

Aquarius service user workshopping affirmations.
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Here To Help

If you’re under 18 and worried about somebody else’s drinking we’re here to help. You don’t need a diagnosis, a referral, or a big reason. If it’s affecting your life, it matters.
Our Choices programme works with young people across Derby, providing non-judgemental, confidential support. We’ll meet you where you are and help you figure things out in a way that works for you.

Contact Us

Aquarius helped my family

"Aquarius helped my family understand what I was going through mentally and physically. If you need help, you should always consider it as an option, as it really helps you to understand what you are actually doing to yourself and also helps your family understand."

Anonymous, Service User

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They saved my life

"They saved my life, I wouldn’t be 2 years clean if it wasn’t for them, I’ve never really had a family but Aqaurius have all become my family."

Kai, Service User

Aquarius service user workshopping affirmations.

Helped me see the correct path

"Aquarius has helped me see the correct path to the end goal of quitting. I would recommend the services as the system is far from conservative, the advice is tailored exactly to how you'd personally quit. They build onwards from this."

Preston, Service User

Support books on a desk next to a potted plant.

Very good clear presentation.

"There was a good variety of attendees from different backgrounds. The information on dependency & how brain is affected in teenage years was especially good. Very good clear presentation."

Anonymous, Service User

Framed artwork on a shelf.

Knowledge shined through

"The trainers knowledge shined through and they effortlessly answered questions, speaking from their professional experience, discussing historic precedents but also new research."

Anonymous, Service User

Office desk and chairs in a room.

What we offer

We support young people in schools, colleges, youth hubs, and the wider community. You can meet with us one-to-one, join group sessions, or access support online.

Aquarius staff member sat on a sofa.

Whether you want information, a space to talk, or explore ways in which you can improve your own situation and be able to respond to somebody’s substance use, we’ll work with you to build confidence and make safer choices, whilst building connections and support networks to help you meet your own potential.

Our team also works with professionals to provide training and advice. If you’re working with a young person who might need support, we’re here to guide you too.

In 2024/2025, we saw over 81% of clients in Derby after a referral was made. Of those, 60% successfully completed their treatment.

People sat around a meeting table.

Who we support

Young people aged 5–18 in Derby

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Those who are affected by someone who is using drug and/or alcohol

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Young people who want to learn more about substance misuse and feel heard and validated for their own experience of being impacted by this.

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Schools, teachers, and youth professionals looking for advice or referrals

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You don’t need to go through anyone to access Choices. You can reach out yourself or ask a teacher, carer, or friend to do it with you. Everything you say is confidential, unless we’re worried you’re not safe.

Get In Touch

Get in touch

Email: derby@aquarius.org.uk
Phone: 01332 362744
Address: Sinfin Family Hub, 345 Sinfin Lane, Derby, DE24 9SF