“Instead of going out to score or drink and thinking of that first thing in the morning, I go somewhere that’s safe.” – Greg, Recovery Day participant.
Local charity Faithworks is creating safe spaces for those in recovery from addiction. Groups and purposeful activities provide daily structure and healthy friendships in community.
Martin said: “The Recovery Day is a safe environment. It helps me to gain confidence in speaking to people. And gives me the chance to maintain healthy relationships.”
With the Duchess of Cambridge recently highlighting the negative impact of the pandemic on addiction, saying that “none of us are immune”, the need for more support for those in recovery is clear.
Recovery Projects Manager, Emma Heath, says “Recovery and developing new, healthy ways to deal with pain, as well as dealing with the root causes of trauma takes commitment and dedication.”
Reducing isolation and increasing gratiude are key to a good recovery. The project aims to encourage both through their Recovery Days and acitivity sessions. These have included drawing and laughter workshops, safety training, social outings and a visit from local charity Parks in Mind around health and wellbeing.
Greg said of the support: “It’s a chance for me to avoid negative, damaging, destructing behaviours and thoughts… If I’ve got a problem, there is someone I can talk to and it stops me from slipping into bad behaviours as well as being a productive use of my time. It’s also helping me on my career path.”
The new STAR Life Course launched this autumn and provides both in person and online recovery courses. The course focuses on the importance of the mind, body & spirit in a person’s recovery journey along with the well-known model of the 12 Steps. Helping people contending with any addiction, habit or compulsive behaviour to improve their quality of life.
Emma says:
“As the Duchess of Cambridge recently said, none of us are immune. However, there is hope with the right help and connections in a safe and supportive environment, long lasting and positive change is possible.”
You can find out more about Faithworks recovery support at: https://faithworkswessex.org.uk/projects/recovery/ or by phoning 01202 429037.