Addiction Case Studies – Public Health Annual Report 2025
The Qualitative Insight team conducted in-depth interviews with people who have experience of addiction with alcohol, drugs, gambling and smoking/vaping to understand their experiences with addiction and recovery services in Wirral. The four case studies were used in Wirral Council’s Public Health Annual Report 2025.
Insights gathered: September 2024 - December 2024
Insights gathered by
Qualitative Insight Team, Public Health, Wirral Council
Aim
The aim of the insight gathering was to deep-dive into the lives of residents who have experience with addiction and recovery that spans decades.
People engaged with
We worked with five Wirral residents who have experience of addiction with drugs, alcohol, gambling, or smoking/vaping, and who have used recovery services in Wirral and beyond.
Methods
The four participant case studies in Chapter 1, The Realities of Addiction, were spoken to using semi-structured interviews. The interviews took place in their home or in community settings. The fifth case study was done using a participatory action method called ‘photovoice’. Photovoice is based on the on the simple idea of using photographs in research interviews, but the participant is in control of the camera. The participant, Katy, chose six images that best represent her personal journey from the “darkness” of 30 years of drug dependency into the “light” of recovery and the opportunities of employment. This case study is Chapter 5 of the report, From Darkness to Light.
Key insights
Each person had a unique perspective on the factors that contributed to their addiction, experiences with stigma, obstacles, and different views on what recovery support and self-help worked best for them. Dr Mike’s case study explores his alcohol addiction throughout his professional career, and the challenges of navigating recovery services as a well-known community member. He speaks on the importance of fellowship and person-centred care on the journey to recovery. Mary’s case study highlights the challenges of drug addiction throughout motherhood, and the stigma her children experienced in school. Liz’s case study explores how her gambling addiction, which started as a fun hobby, “spiralled out of control” with the proliferation of online/smartphone gambling apps. Liz describes her passion for improved regulation of online gambling. Nick’s case study explores his tobacco addiction and his different efforts to quit, which he found challenging after smoking since age 14. He highlights the benefits that quitting has had on his health and finances. Katy’s photovoice case study explores how recovery from drug addiction has led her to employment and a wealth of other opportunities, such as travel and independence.
Quotes
“I did not identify with being an alcoholic because I felt in control. I was holding down a job. I was being promoted. I had great appraisals at work.” “I couldn’t believe it… at 46 getting a passport, something other people take for granted.”
How have the insights been used/shared?
The five case studies were used in Chapters 1 and 5 of the Public Health Annual Report 2025. One case study was featured in Wirral View to showcase the benefits of Wirral’s Stop Smoking Service.
Online links
https://www.wirralintelligenceservice.org/media/jnydv0dh/final-wirral-public-health-annual-report-2024_2025-final-ac.pdf
Contact
qualitativeinsightteam@wirral.gov.uk