“Family 5-Step” is a structured, evidence-based brief intervention designed to support family members affected by a relative’s alcohol or drug use. Developed by the Addictions and the Family International Network (AFiNET), it recognizes the unique and complex set of stresses that family members face. Innovation The original model is delivered face to face. Turning Point, a social enterprise has adapted it into a digital version, designed to be flexible and self-guided. It empowers family members to make choices about coping strategies and increasing social support. The material is brought to life using a range of culturally and demographically diverse personas to engage interest and promote continued reflection and skills practice. The digital version of the 5-step intervention is easily accessed through the Turning Point website. Family members are encouraged to complete the questionnaires at the beginning and end of the intervention to establish changes in how they cope, their physical and psychological health, and social support. Impact Since its launch, over a thousand people have registered to use the intervention, and data reveals a reduction in physical and psychological symptomatology and a reduced impact of substance use on the family member. Feedback suggests that people benefited from thinking more about their situation and having information about further sources of support. Turning Point builds on 60 years of experience. It designs and delivers health and social care services in the fields of substance use, mental health, learning disability, autism, acquired brain injury, sexual health, homelessness, healthy lifestyles, and employment. With expertise in providing innovative, integrated support in a range of places including people’s homes, workplaces, communities, and specialist settings, Turning Point works in over 270 locations across England, empowering people to improve their health and wellbeing, learn, and bring about positive change in their lives. It can be really hard for a family member living with someone struggling with addiction. This resource has been produced by medical experts and will be of help to many people. We are delighted that it is available. Chris Franks, manager, Herefordshire Recovery Service What next? • How can we scale up this kind of innovation and create more effective, responsive, and sustainable people-focused public services? Read our January 2026 report. • More case studies of social enterprise innovation
“Family 5-Step” is a structured, evidence-based brief intervention designed to support family members affected by a relative’s alcohol or drug use. Developed by the Addictions and the Family International Network (AFiNET), it recognizes the unique and complex set of stresses that family members face. Innovation The original model is delivered face to face. Turning Point, a social enterprise has adapted it into a digital version, designed to be flexible and self-guided. It empowers family members to make choices about coping strategies and increasing social support. The material is brought to life using a range of culturally and demographically diverse personas to engage interest and promote continued reflection and skills practice. The digital version of the 5-step intervention is easily accessed through the Turning Point website. Family members are encouraged to complete the questionnaires at the beginning and end of the intervention to establish changes in how they cope, their physical and psychological health, and social support. Impact Since its launch, over a thousand people have registered to use the intervention, and data reveals a reduction in physical and psychological symptomatology and a reduced impact of substance use on the family member. Feedback suggests that people benefited from thinking more about their situation and having information about further sources of support. Turning Point builds on 60 years of experience. It designs and delivers health and social care services in the fields of substance use, mental health, learning disability, autism, acquired brain injury, sexual health, homelessness, healthy lifestyles, and employment. With expertise in providing innovative, integrated support in a range of places including people’s homes, workplaces, communities, and specialist settings, Turning Point works in over 270 locations across England, empowering people to improve their health and wellbeing, learn, and bring about positive change in their lives. It can be really hard for a family member living with someone struggling with addiction. This resource has been produced by medical experts and will be of help to many people. We are delighted that it is available. Chris Franks, manager, Herefordshire Recovery Service What next? • How can we scale up this kind of innovation and create more effective, responsive, and sustainable people-focused public services? Read our January 2026 report. • More case studies of social enterprise innovation