Record numbers attend drug and alcohol recovery event
It's as Abbeycare celebrates its 20th anniversary
An event, which celebrates the achievements of people in recovery from drug and alcohol issues, has taken place in Gloucestershire.
More than 220 people attended the Abbeycare Recovery Gathering, at the Hatherley Manor hotel near Twigworth, the highest number on record.
The annual event was organised and hosted by Abbeycare Gloucester, which runs a residential recovery clinic, in nearby Minsterworth. Many of its staff are in recovery themselves.
All previous and existing clients of Abbeycare were invited to take part, giving them a chance to share their experiences of their ongoing recovery journeys, reconnect with those who supported them at their lowest points and celebrate their own achievements.
Held at the end of National Recovery Month, this year’s event also marked Abbeycare’s 20th anniversary, bringing together staff members and other industry professionals.
The key idea behind the Recovery Gathering, is to bring together Abbeycare’s growing community of existing and former clients and their families, making the process of recovery more visible.
Highlights included a keynote speech from Tracy Blackmore, a specialist trauma therapist, on her experiences of transforming lives affected by addiction.
There were also moving contributions from former Abbeycare clients, insights from family members and recognition of staff milestones.
Registered manager at Abbeycare Gloucester, Tim Pope, said: “There’s nothing quite like our Recovery Gathering. Seeing so many familiar faces come back through the door, looking healthy, happy and full of hope, is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.
“The experiences people shared were truly moving and for anyone still struggling with addiction, hearing from those who were once in the same position is compelling proof that recovery is both possible and achievable.
“This year was extra special, as Abbeycare celebrates its 20th anniversary. Over two decades, our community has grown enormously and it was a chance to celebrate everyone who has been part of that, from our clients and their families, to the dedicated staff who support them.
“Too many lives across the country are still being harmed by drugs and alcohol, which is why it matters so much that we make recovery visible, celebrate every milestone and never forget those we have lost.”