A space for members to discuss, analyse and amplify
If you have something stigma related that you want to say or to share that you think members will benefit from please contact us at news@antistigmanetwork.org.uk with your article.
How can we reclaim the power against public shaming?
Following on from our recent blog looking at the public shaming of primary school teacher Ms Atkin, we have been considering the nature of public shaming.
Developing Inclusion webinar - your questions answered.
Have you seen our latest webinar yet? Check out the recording along with a deep dive on the questions posed to our guest panel.
The Public Shaming of a Primary School Teacher
In this post, James Armstrong of Phoenix Futures questions the reasoning behind the public shaming of Cheshire primary school teacher Ashley Atkin.
Not ‘word policing’: why language matters in reducing alcohol harm - Guest blog, by Dr James Morris
Issues of stigma and language choice have been gaining increased attention, prompting debate and sometimes even opposition to calls to be mindful of language. Concerns about language choice and its role in stigma are of course valid, one reason being that the context in which they are used matters. For instance, whilst terms such as ‘alcoholic’ or ‘addict’ reflect harmful stereotypes, they are also often used by people in recovery to self-label, and even as a way to challenge stigma.
Creating Change in the Acute Healthcare Sector
“We have the power to significantly improve and save people’s lives.” Respiratory physiotherapist, Magda Bannister talks to us about the very personal journey that led her to being instrumental in designing an anti-stigma training package that anyone can access.
'Zombie drugs': How the use of dehumanising metaphors in news reporting on drugs increases stigma
in this longer read, Prof Harry Sumnall looks into the link between dehumanising metaphors and stimga.
Addressing Stigma and Its Impact on Families
Families and carers, who bear much of the emotional burden of substance dependence and its associated stigma are frequently overlooked. The Anti-Stigma Network’s first Accelerator Session highlighted the barriers families face, when supporting loved ones affected by substance use.
Upcoming Webinar - Developing Inclusion
Guest speakers announced for our March 2025 webinar. Book your ticket here.
Turning Up the Volume - The 'Breaking the Silence' Myth
When it comes to discussions around addiction, Navi Dhesi tells us how South Asian communities are addressing alcohol use and its impacts, and how its not a matter of “breaking the silence”, but rather turning up the volume on the dialogues that are already taking place.
Exploring Cultural Experiences of Stigma - your questions answered.
Thanks to everyone who attended our recent webinar: ‘Exploring Cultural Experiences of Stigma ’. As promised, here are the answers to the questions you posed.
Another language guide???
When discussing substance use, being mindful of language is critical to avoiding stigma. Stigmatising language can perpetuate negative stereotypes, hinder access to substance use care, and the wider resources we all need for our health and wellbeing.
Who, if anyone, is furious?
As language evolves and language guides become a more common tool to address stigmatised health conditions, we ask The Sun and Daily Mail who is it making so furious?
The Shape of Stigma: Reflections for the Year Ahead
As we step into a new year, it's natural to reflect on the past and look forward to the future. It's peak season for reflective blogs, annual reports and the like.
Why Choosing An Alcohol-Free Lifestyle Can Create More Questions Than Answers
Scott Woolley, the founder of Arclett explores the stigma surrounding an alcohol-free lifestyle.
Upcoming Webinar: Exploring Cultural Experiences of Stigma
We are delighted to announce our line up of guest speakers for the ‘Exploring Cultural Experiences of Stigma’webinar this month.
Book your free ticket here and join us.
Errors in reasoning that contribute to stigma.
The more we look at stigmatisation, the more we reveal logical fallacies. James Armstrong looks at what types of errors in judgement there are so we can begin to understand our own tendencies.
The London Alcohol-Free Comedy Club
Have you been to a comedy club where the laughter is not enhanced by alcohol or drugs yet? Martyn from Phoenix Futures explains why he set one up and why you should visit.
‘Ethics in Focus’ - questions and answer from our webinar
We were delighted see so many of you at our recent webinar ‘Ethics in focus’. As promised, here are the answers to the questions you posed.
Whose Definition? Fear-Based Responses to Everyday Words
Drawing on personal experiences of opening treatment services and engaging with diverse stakeholders, James Armstrong shares reflections and practical insights on navigating the complex communication landscape around substance use and addiction.
Is the BBC institutionally stigmatising?
The BBC is a beloved national institution, it’s amongst the most trustworthy news outlets in the world, but its editorial guidelines are out of date which makes it difficult for them to report on matters related to substance use without causing harm.