Change Grow Live Birmingham: North Hub - Birmingham

Mihails Z.

I am a sick person, my back hurts, it is difficult for me to walk, I have mental problems. Today I had an appointment at cgl birmingham, I am very unhappy with the service, I was seen by a student intern, I told him about my problems, in the end I did not receive any help, I wasted my time, although when I called them they promised to help me with my problems,for what government pay them Money?

Matthew P.

I called this service today and what a Disgusting attitude towards me by the person on the other end when all I asked was a simple question asking how long the call backs normally take as It’s been a week since I last called up . Not the way to treat patients who has plucked up the courage to even call up and ask for help and that’s the way to deal with people when the patient could be going through a really bad patch!! Absolute raging!! Speak to me like that again and I’ll report you!

Andy J.

Absolutely useless and they are nothing more than a sham paid for by the tax payer to make the government seem like they are taking action. Every single issue I had like childhood trauma, insomnia, depression, homelessness, anxiety, negative thoughts, family issues, financial advice and bereavements are shrugged off as not their problem. Even just trying to have someone to talk to is dismissed because the workers aren't "counsellors". Example: I contacted my worker to see if they had any contacts or partnerships with homeless prevention teams. The answer? "You wouldn't phone the council for help with your substance misuse or medication so why do you think we can help?"

If you want a weeks course telling you "drugs are bad mmkay?" full of pseudoscience and nonsensical so called advice that was developed by an ex alcoholic then you're in luck. If you want a cup of coffee and a group chat once a month on how good CGL are then they are more than happy to facilitate that.

They're a middle man between yourself and your GP and nothing more. You are mandated to attend too if you need to be treated with medication.

You're not treated like a patient with needs and negative thoughts and behaviours that they can help you with. You are looked down upon and treated with suspicion from the start. Any mention of depression or anxiety and you're labelled as a medication seeker. It took me 4 years of constant appointments with them and my doctor and a psychiatrist just to be prescribed a weak antihistamine to help with my anxiety.

A massive overhaul is needed at CGL before their dismal outcome rate is improved. You're better off seeing them for your medication and sorting out the problems you can for yourself because CGL are impotent.

Gary W.

A great service provided by great people. At the beginning I was apprehensive, the fear kicked in and I was nervous about the process. I initially spoke to my GP, and he said to contact CGL, I did feel a bit fobbed off but after my referral and first group session, I felt better. Following the group session, I had a medical, did the pee test to show what was in my system and a great chat with the CGL doctor about my use and my goals. My goals were understood, and a plan made with all the information needed to achieve it all. A few months later I am clean, and in a much better place. I did think of removing my name but then thought, no, there should be no stigma attached to seeking help, so if like me you are struggling, self-medicating, please seek help! Its out there.
CGL understand, they have collective experiences and someone there will get you. Sam helped me a lot, she is down to earth, honest, and supportive. She called me, text me and even at the times I didn’t call back, she did not pester and followed up in the nicest way. She is great! This is something I should have done years ago; my life is back, and I owe a lot to CGL. If you are ready, please go through with this process, you wont regret it.

Caroline A.

I would like to thank Winston for all his time, compassion and support over the past 7 weeks. I am now a better person and have put my life and relationships back in the right place. CGL, change grow live, this is what all people should consider when seeking help, learn to change, grow into a better person and live a more positive happier life. This is what I have done and will reap the benefits. Once again thank you Winston 😊

Jane M.

Today I took a client who really needed help when we got there she had a panic attack because of people waiting to be seen we was taken straight threw to a private room by her drug worker John who was so lovely and understanding . We then saw the doctor who I think was called Kevin again lovely man who listened to her . You can tell they care and don’t judge. I’ve been to a few of theses places over the city and never have I been to one that really listens and cares these places should come here and learn off you all and not be judgmental I really can’t fault any of you I just want to say thank you for listening to her 🙏. Outstanding place many thanks Jane Ps thank you to the lady in reception in Santa hat for making my client smile when we was about to leave you are all very special people

Faith M.

I'd ypu ate suffering from addiction best place for support

Beata P.

After we struggling for more than 5 days and nobody don't respond calls. I want to thanks Craig for find the way and time to help us. We have different experience with CGL also when it was scala house.But service helps a lot, there are plenty of things we couldn't get done without help of these guys!!!