Benjamin Butterworth’s parents were both heroin addicts when they had him. His mum left soon after he was born; after his dad was imprisoned for dealing, he was raised by his grandparents. In his twenties he finally met his mother and, since then, has tried to build a meaningful relationship with her. This is his story of love, loss, childhood trauma and what’s it like to be born into an addict’s environment.

This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit samdelaney.substack.com/subscribe