Friends of 1 North East (Fo1NE), founded by a service user in 1998, is a group of around 20 current and ex service users who meet on a regular basis. The Director of Business and Finance at 1NE also attends these meetings to provide support and advice.

The main aims of Fo1NE are:

• To raise funds to enhance the activities of 1NE
• To arrange social events for service users, past and present, and their families in a safe, alcohol-free environment
• To facilitate the provision of information, mutual support and client involvement both during and after treatment at 1NE
• To actively participate in the planning and development of local services
• To strengthen the voice of service users within the organisation

The social events are very popular with around 60 people at the quiz evenings and between 150 and 200 at the barbecue. Every six months a newsletter is published for clients and ex clients (current circulation of around 400 and increasing every year) keeping them up to date with developments and events at 1NE.

At the moment, Fo1NE are extending their activities to include Saturday workshops for current and former clients.