affinity magazine - august 2013 issue 006

2 | Affinity Newsletter • Issue 004 - March 2013

Affinity Team

Introducon

Hi Guys and welcome to our very special edion of Affinity Magazine. This is our first edion since expanding across Lancashire and what beer way to celebrate than to do a special edion on Lancashire User Forum and Red Rose Recovery.

In this issue we wanted to introduce to anyone new in recovery what Red Rose Recovery (RRR) and the Lancashire User Forum (LUF) is all about – and for the knowing recovery community - a celebraon and place to be proud of what has and is being achieved in Lancashire! The recovery community in Lancashire is bigger than ever and there has been plenty to report on, including the fantasc LUFStock camping – which had a briliant turn out. We have has been plenty to report on, including the fantasc LUFStock camping – which had a briliant turn out. We have updates from all the Red Rose Recovery workers, from new areas and our regular North Lancashire update, which show how busy everyone has been across the County.

The magazine focuses on celebrang recovery and making visible what supports the 5 ways to well being in Lancashire It connect individuals, adversies acvies, encourages reflecon, supports people in taking noce of the good things around them, encourages learning and provides opportunies for individuals to give back to their communies. We are now expanding the Affinity Magazine wider to include more news, events and arcles from Central, East and We are now expanding the Affinity Magazine wider to include more news, events and arcles from Central, East and North Lancashire. This is fantasc news, as the more connecons and bridges we can help build across the county, the stronger and wider the recovery community will grow. We believe this will also helps support people in the community that live between these areas - making sure that no out misses out!

Affinity magazine is brought to you voluntarily by a diverse bunch of individuals from across the recovery community. It is edited, produced and distributed for free by people in recovery and their friends.

This Magazine is yours. It celebrates and supports all recovery and if you have anything you would like to be in the This Magazine is yours. It celebrates and supports all recovery and if you have anything you would like to be in the next edion of the magazine or if you would like to become part of our team then please contact us at [email protected] or give us a shout on our Facebook Affinity Magazine page.

Recovery in Acon

GIVEKEEP LEARNINGTAKE NOTICEBE ACTIVECONNECT

3 | Affinity Magazine • Issue 006 - August 2013

Red Rose Recovery and Lancashire User Forum Partnership

What is the relaonship between Red Rose Recovery (RRR) and the Lancashire User Forum (LUF)? Anyone can become a member of LUF at any point in their recovery journey; LUF is now the largest forum in England for those in recovery from drug and alcohol misuse. Together, RRR and LUF aspires to empower all individuals in recovery from substance and alcohol addicon to be more engaged in our communies and to be a vital part of society. Service Users may be adults of any age - the shared goal is one of recovery. Oen Service Users may have an offending history which has arisen because of their addicon and the aim of RRR and LUF is to reduce have an offending history which has arisen because of their addicon and the aim of RRR and LUF is to reduce re-offending by encouraging and supporng recovery and a purposeful role in our community.

RED ROSE RECOVERY “From a Seed to a Rose Our Community Grows”Red Rose Recovery (RRR) is now a Registered Charity that tackles sgma and seeks to give people recovering from drug or alcohol misuse, the chance to contribute to their local communies by taking part in educaon, employment or volunteering. The RRR team work with communies in East, Central and North Lancashire to team work with communies in East, Central and North Lancashire to build links within charies, leisure groups, colleges and local businesses to create real opportunies for people in recovery to rebuild their lives, whilst giving something back to the community. RRR delivers services to the community, building sustainable recovery for Service Users, families and their carers (the ‘recovery community’).

LANCASHIRE USER FORUM (LUF): “Working Together – Moving Forward”Lancashire User Forum (LUF) gives service users from all backgrounds, their families and carers, a space to talk and share experiences. Service their families and carers, a space to talk and share experiences. Service Users work side by side with treatment providers and professionals as LUF offers a level playing field where members can discuss relevant issues, share ideas and best pracce. It is also a chance to meet people with similar interests and aspiraons and to listen to interesng talks and take part in workshops and acvies. LUF provides a collecve voice for the recovery community in Lancashire.

However RRR and LUF are much more than just a company and a forum. We all have a sense of belonging and However RRR and LUF are much more than just a company and a forum. We all have a sense of belonging and treat each other with mutual respect. LUF is the body and RRR is the arms and legs and RRR could not exist without the LUF as it was borne out of a need that became apparent via ideas that were shared at the forum!

For more informaon go to Lancashire User Forum group on Facebook, www.redroserecovery.org.uk or get in touch with one of the locality workers (featured in the magazine).

LUF & RRRIntroducing



Therefore, there are so many posives to draw from volunteering. I would recommend it to anybody who wishes engage with others, keep acve, take noce of what is going on within your community, learn and give to others. These five principles are an important building blocks to my and others recovery.blocks to my and others recovery.

I have been involved with Lancashire User Forum and Red Rose Recovery for some me now. I get a great deal of sasfacon out of being involved with a posive recovering community. Being involved with Red Rose and LUF is a posive experience which has helped my emoonal growth.

Simple things like engaging with others and contribung to society keeps me clean and focussed. This engagement with others helps my confidence, self worth and self esteem. I am no longer isolated but connected to a beauful experience which I only wish I had of realised much sooner in my life. However, no point crying over spilt milk. Volunteering also gives me a posive identy and gets me noced for all the right point crying over spilt milk. Volunteering also gives me a posive identy and gets me noced for all the right reasons. The responsibility also prepares me for the problems I will no doubt face in the workplace in the coming years.

“...I am no longer iscolated but connected to a beauful experience...”

Want to share your volunteering experiences with Affinity? If so...drop us a line and tell us how your volunteering has helped shape your recovery! [email protected]

The Volunteers ViewLUF

EVENTS'Homeless for a night' annual sleepout» At: Lancaster Town Hall (steps), LancasterLancaster & district homeless action 'homeless for a night' annual sleepout. All welcome, come & support a very worthy cause.

25th Sunday 8.00pm-7.00am

The Well presents… Old and New Skool Night » At: The Well, Lancaster Boys and Girls club, Dallas Rd, Lancaster– featuring a performance from the Fallen Angels Dance Theatre and Dj and dancing afterwards. Free event, donations welcome. For more information contact Dave at [email protected] / 07776097964.

31st Saturday 7:30pm

Snowdon Summit - Recovery Cafe WalkThe plan is to meet at the top of Snowdon at 13.00pm. We will 'plant' a purple ag to mark the beginning of Recovery Month, and then hold an informal gathering at the cafe. Please note that the UKRF will not be responsible for your climb/walk up the mountain so please make sure you get appropriate advice and guidance re safety and clothing etc before setting off. See the Facebook page for more info clothing etc before setting off. See the Facebook page for more info on the event: www.facebook.com/events/314945875298860/

East Lancashire User Forum» At: AB+D Building, Burnley Road, Bacup, OL13 8EUEast locality LUF – Find out what’s happening in your recovery community and have a voice! For more information contact Jane Riley at [email protected] or 07885557699.

1st Sunday

3rd Tuesday

August

September



EVENTS

Short Courses - Taster Sessions» At: The Park Family Centre in AccringtonA combination of 4 short courses: (All Level 1) Award in Alcohol Awareness, Stress Awareness, Substance Misuse Awareness and Mental Health Awareness. All are taster sessions so people can see if they like it and whether they would like to go on to Level 2. Contact: Jane Riley - [email protected] or 07885557699.

4th Wednesday

Short Courses and Training» At: Lancaster Town Hall (steps), LancasterLancaster Central Red Rose Recovery – starting end of Sept education courses in Chorley, Preston and Leyland. Venue’s tbc except for Chorley – at the Matrix House. Every Tuesday 10am till 1pm for 16 weeks. People are welcome to bring family and friends to do the courses and they are free. All courses are 4 weeks long and each will courses and they are free. All courses are 4 weeks long and each will be accredited. Numbers for Chorley are limited to 10 and in other areas limited to 16. However if there is a lot of interest we could accommodate another class.o Level 1 Award in Alcohol Awareness.o Level 1 Award in Stress Awareness.o Level 1 Award in Substance Misuse Awareness.oo Level 1 in Mental Health Awareness.Coming soon 1 day a week a recovery hub in Skelmersdale with a café, accredited training sessions and recreational facilities. if anyone is interested in doing PTLLS in Central but a minimum of 8 are needed or it cant go ahead. Again it will be free. Its Preparing toTeach in the Life Long learning Sector and means you can deliver training. Contact: Rose Latham - [email protected] 07935251579.

3rd Tuesday September



EVENTS

The First Gloucestershire Recovery Walk» At: Brimscombe, Stroud, Brimscombe, Gloucestershire GL5 2SEFrom 12 noon to collect your ‘Recovery Changed Our Lives’ balloon and get free face painting for children. Coffee and bacon rolls will also be available to purchase prior to the walk. Free parking is available outside the STAR centre. Bring your own picnic to eat in the park- drinking water will be available. Contact: 07584310533.park- drinking water will be available. Contact: 07584310533.

8th Sunday 1– 4pm

Botany Bay Ramblers» Meet at: Botany Bay Chorley car parkBotany Bay Ramblers meet every 1st Saturday of month and regularly attracts 30+ walkers. For more info contact Rose Latham at [email protected] or 07935251579.

7th Saturday 9am

Central Lancashire User Forum » At: East Cliff County Offices, Preston, lancashire, PR1 3JTCentral locality LUF meeting. Come along and let us know what you would like to see in your area. For more information contact Rose Latham at [email protected] or 07935251579.

6th Friday

10 Week Film Project Course» At: The Well, Lancaster Boys and Girls club, Dallas Rd, Lancaster.Would you like to make your own lm or music video? Come down to The Well and join the 10 week lm course with DMC Media. Only 12 places available! For more call David on 07581460120.

5th Thursday 1 - 4:30pm

September



EVENTS

Juice in the Park» At: The Pavilion Cafe in Queens Park, BurnleyCoffee and conversation... zumba with Alison Hammond... and an impromptu acoustic night with some of Juice's more talented members! For more information nd Juice on Facebook or call the Hub number at number 07549 625852.

20th Friday 5:30-9pm

Pendle Hill Recovery Ramble» Meet at: Barley Village Car ParkBring a picnic for the summit… experience all 5 Ways to Wellbeing in one afternoon! Transport will be provided from Inspire sites (limited places). Speak to Inspire walk coordinators or Kerry on 07788 317838.

15th Sunday 11am

Rochdale On The Rise» At: Champness Hall, Drake Street, Rochdale, OL16 1PBJoin Rochdale Boroughwide Service User Group in celebrating recovery. Includes recovery stories, guest speakers, food, refreshments and music. Families and children welcome. For more info email [email protected].

13th Friday 10am – 5pm

North Lancashire User Forum» At: The Well Church, Ansdell Road North, Lytham, St Annes, FY8 4EZNorth locality LUF Meeting. Come along and let us know what you would like to see in your area. For more information contact Becci on [email protected] or 07535891647.

11th Wednesday 10-3pm

September



EVENTS

County Lancashire User Forum» At: Kirkham PrisonCounty wide Lancashire User Forum – Find out what’s happening across the Lancashire recovery communities and have a voice! For more information please get in touch with your local LUF worker.

17th Thursday

UK Recovery Walk - Birmingham 2013» Meet at: Victoria Square, Birmingham City CentreCome along to a great day! This year's UK Recovery Walk will be held in Birmingham! The two mile walk will begin in Victoria Square at 12.00pm and end in Calthorpe Park where there will be a big celebration of recovery in its widest sense including addiction and mental health difficulties. Birmingham Recovery Community look mental health difficulties. Birmingham Recovery Community look forward to welcoming people from all over the UK.

22nd Sunday 12pm

5-a-side Football Tournament » At: Soccer Burnley, Crow Wood Leisure, Royle Lane, Burnley, BB10 0RTThe day aims to bring together local partners and recovery communities from across Lancs to Connect and get Active. We will also be raising funds to keep the valuable “Kickstart to Recovery” Coaching and league growing. £50 team entry (5-7 players a team advised). Trophies and surprise prize for winning team. To register a advised). Trophies and surprise prize for winning team. To register a team contact Kerry on 07788 317838.

21st Saturday 1-4pm

October

September





...coninued on next page

Manchester is set to become the country’s focal point for recovery aer beang off sff compe on to host the 2014 UK Recovery Walk.

The announcement was made by the UK Recovery Walk Charity on July the 20th this year at a specially-held ceremony at The Brink in Liverpool. Over 300 people who aended from across the UK, heard that the bid proposed by Greater Manchester Recovery Federaon had been successful in their applicaon to host the Walk next year.

The UK Recovery Walk which takes place each September, celebrates recovery and allows recognion of the achievements of individuals in recovery and those who work in prevenon and treatment. The ulmate aim is to carry the message that recovery is real, is achievable and to encourage those affected in to recovery.

Dave Ryan, one of the members of GMRF who helped put the winning bid together said, how excing and wonderful it was that Greater Manchester had been chosen to host the UK Recovery Walk in 2014, and that he was looking forward to working in partnership with the Charity, he also said he couldn’t wait to start walking the walk now that it was Manchester’s turn it certainly wouldn’t be a case of talking the talk and that Manchester 2014 was going to be with everyone’s help a phenomenal event.

It was the first year that the winners had been chosen through a democrac system of elecon. It was also announced that each year from 2014 onwards that the Host city/town proposed bids would be made public announced that each year from 2014 onwards that the Host city/town proposed bids would be made public and the decision as to where the 2015 UK Recovery Walk and each subsequent year would be decided by the members of the UK Recovery Walk charity through a vong system.

In January 2013 we saw the establishment of the UK Recovery Walk Charity and the bidding process to host the UK Recovery Walk launched. Both these developments were as a result of the connued growth of the popularity of the UK Recovery Walks.

Greater Manchester to host the 2014 UK Recovery Walk.

CharityUK Recovery Walk



The UK Recovery Walk Charity made up of people in recovery involved in previous walks has now implemented and established these processes and its main focus is to sustain and develop The UK Recovery Walk each year.

We know that by having a recognised, easily accessible and fair process each year that more and more people will become interested in hosng this wonderful yearly event. When we made the announcement in The Brink, Liverpool that Greater Manchester would be the host city for 2014, the roar of excitement and congratulaons that resounded round the room was deafening and electric. It truly was a day to remember and not just because it was the official launch The UK Recovery Walk Charity. There were passionate and joyful speeches because it was the official launch The UK Recovery Walk Charity. There were passionate and joyful speeches from Jacquie Johnstone Lynch, Nick Mercer, Simon Jenkins and other well loved and respected long term members of the recovery community. We had wonderful music from 2 different choirs both Red Rose and Raucous Chaucous, a wonderful selecon of bands all in recovery, including “it’s all about me” “Soulford” and Simon Mason from “The Should Be Deads” reading extracts from his book “too high too far too soon”, and a whole host of exceponally talented acousc acts from Liverpool including the sublime Shona Carmen.

Annemarie Ward the founder of the UK Recovery Walk Charity and previously a founding Director of the UK Annemarie Ward the founder of the UK Recovery Walk Charity and previously a founding Director of the UK Recovery Federaon (the vehicle the walks went through previously) said: “Our work going forward in Manchester will truly be a blueprint for the Charity. This experience will give us a chance to document our progress, record how we support the host city/town and begin to sustain the development and growth of the UK Recovery Walk every year”. She added: “We also look forward to having a host winner’s party every year to announce the winners of future walks and inving all our members along on the day to celebrate with us.”

For more informaon: www.ukrecoverywalk.org

...ConnuedCharityUK Recovery Walk

North Locality WorkerBecci O’Sullivan



Walk in St Annes, Sunday 7th July. Taking a well deserved rest at Fairhaven Lake

From May to July, 11 people from Fleetwood, Blackpool, Lancaster and Morecambe have been working towards their PTLLS awards in teaching. This course was run through Lancashire Adult Learning. This was a solid and movated group that did absolutely fantasc. Feedback from the tutors has been amazing. Well done all!

Preston College have also been running courses within the community. So far between 16-24 people have gained NCFE Level 1 cerficates in Stress Awareness, Mental Health Awareness, Substance Misuse Awareness cerficates and are working towards level 1 in Alcohol Awareness cerficates. Again the tutor’s feedback is great. This 16 week rolling programmes starts in St Anne’s on the 20th August; if you would like to join this course please contact me. Preston College are also running Health and Social Care Level 2 Diploma in Fleetwood, the guys are into the second week and are all looking forward to ge ng more into the course and learning which then is put into pracce on a placement within Health and Social Care Sector. This course will soon be up and running in St Anne’s, keep an eye on the LUF page on Facebook for further info.St Anne’s, keep an eye on the LUF page on Facebook for further info.

Walks have also been taking place in both Fleetwood and St Anne’s on alternave Sundays. These walks are taking shape and building up momentum. This Sunday people came from as far as Lancaster, Morecambe, Blackpool and Fleetwood. Everybody connected and had a laugh as a result. The next walk is 18th August,meeng at 11am Meeng at Ferry Point, Fleetwood to go over to Kno End and go for a walk. Remember sun cream if weather is nice, suitable footwear and drinks. Children, friends and family welcome, also pets as long as well behaved!

in the North Locality of Wyre & Fylde This is a brief update of what has been going on Hi guys!

... continued



North Locality WorkerBecci O’Sullivan

Contact details: [email protected]

On the 4th July, Red Rose Recovery volunteers took part in community wellbeing and clean up event in Fleetwood alongside Regenda Housing Associaon, Lancashire Fire and Rescue, Community Payback, Lancashire Police, Wyre Borough council and other agencies. This was another inspiraonal day where volunteers excelled and challenged the sgma associated with addicon. Feedback on the day and aer was overwhelmingly posive and we also had media coverage of the day too.

Wyre Borough Council is donang a pocket garden to Red Rose Recovery in the near future. This will no doubt require some more me from our dedicated volunteers, to make into a community garden for all to enjoy. require some more me from our dedicated volunteers, to make into a community garden for all to enjoy. Also Fleetwood Fire staon has asked Red Rose volunteers to help establish and maintain a memorial in honour of lost firefighters. Again another opportunity for volunteers to connect and challenge the sgma associated with addicon.

I am looking at se ng up a Women's group in St Annes - if anyone is interested in ge ng involved please get in touch. Does anybody have any good ideas for a social enterprise? Please contact me and keep those ideas flowing. Finally, if anybody wishes to become involved in our brilliant volunteering and educaon opportunies please contact me on:

Guitar group - starts 2nd September 2-4 pmat St. Annes From beginner, all levels welcome. Get some music into your recovery!

Womens Group - Starts 2nd September 10-2pmat The Hub. FleetwoodCome along, have a brew and chat, and get support, bring idea's of acvites and talks you would like and we can look at organising

Diary Dates & Groups starng soon...Drop-in every Friday 12-4pmat Paterson Centre St AnnesCome along and find out what is going on with LUF and RRR.

Walks - every fortnight Fleetwood and St Annes, contact Mark 07925031707.

LUF supporng Fleetwood Carnival, with Marshalling on the day.



This year’s LUFStock saw a fantasc turn out of people from all walks of recovery, who came together for a packed weekend of family fun and good mes! The LUFStock recovery weekend was founded in 2012 by Lisa Ozenbrook Allen – a proud LUF member and Community Outreach Worker based at HMP Kirkham Prison. This year’s event proved to be another success, more than doubling last year’s aendance. The summer recovery weekend also enabled many families to enjoy what had been their first ever holiday with their kids since being in recovery.

The recovery yurt was kindly assembled and donated for the weekend by Vicky Dewhurst from the Ribble Trust, who do work in partnership with Red Rose Recovery, including big river cleanups in Burnley and running River Habitat Management courses. The yurt provided a great space for the kids to play, for mutual aid meengs to connect and for people to chill out and shade from the hot sun.

Billy from Fleetwood and his beauful assistants were hands on in the kitchen throughout the weekend, preparing, cooking and serving breakfast and dinner for the whole camp! Kirkham Prison also kindly donated atremendous amount of fruit and vegetables which fed the masses and was very tasty!

In the dayme there was lots of me to catch up with new and old friends in recovery, as people had travelled from the and old friends in recovery, as people had travelled from the lengths of Lancashire, as well as places as far as Scotland and Bournemouth. There were also friendly games of football, rounder’s and sports day style games in the sunshine.

...connued on next page

Leanne and Billy serving the masses!

Recovery Camping 2013LUFStock



On Saturday the kids had a great me being creave and decorang shells in the Yurt with Kelly Bieliauskas. By the evening me, everyone came together around the campfire and listened to songs played by Dominic and David Dakan followed by some tunes by Lisa Williamson on the guitar.

On Sunday morning the brilliant Mr. Abracadabra - Mike Falcon (who came for free thanks to Rose Latham) entertained the kids in the famous Yurt, whilst the adults packed up the cars ready to go!Here are a few comments from some of this year’s happy campers:Here are a few comments from some of this year’s happy campers:

“Back from LUFstock, had the best me with the best people x With old and new friends for life x It's been amazing thankyou all at the LUF x can't wait ll we do it again x love you all to bits x” - Leanne McClean

"Thanks Dominic Dakan :) Truly inspiraonal and one of my

favourite memories, I was star gazing, saw 4 meteors &

numerous shoong stars & u transported me" - Alan Smith

“Wicked weekend - absolutely loved

every minute and met some totally

amazing people!

Thanx guys for some truly amazing

memories xx" - Marie Diggins

“Is rather teary... my youngest just came into my bedroom to say

goodnight and put his arms round me and said "mum I'm so proud

of you for not drinking for a long me because we had a great me

with you and all your friends it was wowzers and worth stopping

ge ng drunk for wasn't it!" – Rose Latham

“For me the whole weekend was "magical" visible recovery a

t its best!....my highlight was

seeing mother and son enjoying their first ever holiday togeth

er....Priceless! Xxxx”

- Lisa Ozenbrook Allen

“It was brill, luved it. ge n a mansion

tent for season 2.xxx” - Jackie Brennan

"Big big thanks to the guys who made

LUFStock happen - acon and hard work.

It was a very special weekend, fond memories,

lovely people, new friendships - Recovery rocks!!!!!!!

Special thanks to Lisa, Jane and Rose and all who pulled

it together x x" - Lisa Williamson

“Unforgeable x”

“A magical weekend filled with fond memories,

laughter and lots of love!” – Kerry Stewart

“Fantasc x is it too early to pack for next year? X lol xx” - Kathryn Ann Furey

“One word.... Awesome!”

David Dakan followed by Lisa WilliamsonSongs around the campfire with Dominic and

Recovery Camping 2013LUFStock

...connued



I’m Rose and I have been working for Red Rose Recovery and been a commiee member of Lancashire User Forum for 9 months now and what a 9 months it’s been. I am in the privileged posion of meeng and working with some amazing inspiraonal people and have enjoyed every minute of it. Being in recovery myself I know what a journey recovery is and how it’s important we connect with others and embrace the new life we make for ourselves. Working for Red Rose Recovery allows us to do this every day and form good posive relaonships with others.allows us to do this every day and form good posive relaonships with others.

When I first came into post I had an invisible shield sll wrapped around me and without realising I was unapproachable for some of the guys. I am lucky I have been surrounded by loving people who have pointed this out to me in a kind manner so I worked on it and it’s certainly made my world a beer place and am sure as a result I am now much easier to approach and a lot gentler in my mannerisms.

Being a RRR worker isn’t just about helping others as it has helped me enormously to work alongside each and every person I have had the pleasure to meet. I have spent a lot of me working alongside the rering chairevery person I have had the pleasure to meet. I have spent a lot of me working alongside the rering chairDarren Walters as we have made good connecons in HMP Wymo and regularly visit the treatment wing and speak to the guys on there. As a direct result of this we have now been asked to visit the ladies in HMP Styal andthis came at the right me as we now have Emma Daggers as LUF chair and she is devoted to recovery for those caught in the web of addicon and crime so I am lucky that I will work in close proximity with her.

In the short me I have been in post with the assistance of others, RRR Central in partnership with Disability First and with BRiC funding from Public Health England (previously known as Lancashire Drug and Alcohol Acon and with BRiC funding from Public Health England (previously known as Lancashire Drug and Alcohol Acon Team) a Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector and as a result of this a parcipant has already secured employment. There have also been further courses delivered with great success as we have a fabulous partnership with the educaon providers throughout the area.

There have been many referrals from other agencies for voluntary work and each person was given a voluntary role in the wider community with real chances of training that may lead to employment. I have also worked with service users who were homeless with one guy in parcular sleeping rough in an abandoned car. By showing compassion and seeing the bigger picture I worked closely...Rose supporng the Frenchwood Allotment BBQ in Preston

Hi everyone!

Central Locality WorkerRose Latham



... him and made some calls to an exisng contact who was working for a housing provider in West Lancashire and this man secured a tenancy in his own flat, he is now working and recovering on a daily basis and has completely transformed his life to know RRR has played even a ny part in helping him is what for me this role is about.

We have also done several environmental projects in the shape of a community clean up assisted by service users, service providers and the BRiC worker Kate Hamer. We also transformed a community garden in Skelmersdale and the residents came out in force to see it with a lot of posive feedback to the guys Skelmersdale and the residents came out in force to see it with a lot of posive feedback to the guys parcipang. This stuff is fantasc for them as they have oen lived on the margins of society and to see the community embrace them is priceless.

Skelmersdale has historically been a hard to reach area with very lile interacon however this is now changing and as a direct result of this RRR is planning to open a recovery hub one day a week in an exisng community centre where educaon, training and volunteering opportunies will be available, not just for those in recovery but for the wider community. There will be a community café and recreaonal facilies available and this will be but for the wider community. There will be a community café and recreaonal facilies available and this will be organised by RRR and assisted by volunteers who will eventually take ownership of the project. It is not too ambious to hope to duplicate this in every area I cover.

One of the biggest achievements since I came into post both personally and professionally for me was the Lancashire Arts and Culture Recovery Awards. This took place on 23rd May 2013 at the University of Central Lancashire and was a massive success. RRR inherited Lancashire and was a massive success. RRR inherited this project from LDAAT and I was asked to lead on it. I was very nervous that it would not be as popular as we were hoping. However the awards night was cascaded throughout the whole of Lancashire and was open to anyone in recovery, including, family, friends and carers.

Inially the date was postponed due to a lack of interest however with some relentless promoon via social Inially the date was postponed due to a lack of interest however with some relentless promoon via social media, word of mouth and posng flyers in services the entries came flying in. It was ancipated that 50 entries would be deemed a success as it was the first event of its kind but we received over 100 entries and the talent was mind blowing. Entries came in from all areas and all ages. I had a lot of help from Tony Husband who as well as sponsoring the prize for the children’s secon himself used his contacts to secure some fabulous prizes from Elbow, Hatrick Producons, Roger Ward (Albert’s Chop House Manchester) Paul Wolfgang Webster (renowned photographer) and his good friend Ian McMillan hosted the evening. photographer) and his good friend Ian McMillan hosted the evening.

...connued on next page

Shrugswood environmental clean up in Leyland organised in partnership with with Kate Hamer

... continued


“From a seed to a rose our community grows”



The night was a resounding success we had been expecng maybe 100 people to turn up but the number was almost double that. The entries on display were individually amazing, and collecvely to see the talent in the recovery community was awe inspiring. As a direct result of these wards several of the entrants have been commissioned for further works of art, an entrant is now exhibing his work and as a result has le the benefits system to start his own business such is the demand for his work. Another entrant is teaching creave wring as his talent for poetry was recognised on the night. The compe on was also open to people serving prison sentences and the entries from both HMP Wymo and Garth were also on display and one of the prize winners sentences and the entries from both HMP Wymo and Garth were also on display and one of the prize winners was from Garth. The evening was fully inclusive and we hope to make this an annual event. So watch this space!!!

There are many projects up and coming in the geographical area I work in, including accredited courses starng in September in Preston, Leyland and Chorley. There will be more projects coming up so get yourself involved and if you have an idea you want to see put into pracce then speak to me and together hopefully we can make it happen.

Photographs courtesy of Paul Wolfgang Webster

... continued




We took on the allotment at Frenchwood Allotments in October last year as a Discover project intended for the recovery community. From the pictures you can see that the plot was very overgrown and the greenhouse was caving in. A group of service users and workers went down inially to see what needed to be done. In honesty, it was quite overwhelming and there appeared so much to do but we encouraged each other and tried to be posive…

A week later we were there, armed with petrol tools and blitzed it. We worked very hard in those first few weeks but we all enjoyed it and the kinship it brought about between us is sll there almost a year on. We burnt most of the waste as we went along and it only took us a few weeks to get the plot to ground level so we could see the true potenal of it.

Kae Hamer contacted the Wildlife Trust and we were given supportfrom them from the start. Inially we had thought we could save the greenhouse but safety for those using it was a priority, it was the greenhouse but safety for those using it was a priority, it was beyond repair and a hazard so we ripped it down and had a new one built. This was a much bigger job than we had ancipated and took a lot longer so we were late ge ng our tomatoes in this year but here’s hoping! We have put a lot of work into this project but we have loved it. To see people come down to the allotment and connect with others and try to develop new skills is heart warming. It has also been an inspiraon to try to see the potenal not only inIt has also been an inspiraon to try to see the potenal not only inthings but also in each other. Last week a service user came down who was quite nervous and very shy, by the me he le, he was cha ng away and arranging the next me to come down. He has a lot of skills he can bring to the allotment but the benefits to himself will be much greater.

Connued on next page...

by Tina Motley



Here’s how the allotment looks aer all the hard work!

We have all sorts growing on the plot… cauliflowers, potatoes, cabbages, beetroot, leuce, onions, peas,peppers, aubergine, chilli’s, radishes etc. All the sunshine and rain has helped, we are grateful for both. We have had 2 or 3 barbeques on the plot and have had people visit from other rehab programs, again connecng with new ones in recovery. Those on the community rehab program access the allotment every Friday aernoon but it is open to all who want to be involved with it. There is always someone there on a Monday and Friday. Just come down and have a nosey and a brew, we don’t hand everyone who comes down Monday and Friday. Just come down and have a nosey and a brew, we don’t hand everyone who comes down a spade but if you’re willing we will.

...Continued



I’m Jane Riley the Red Rose Recovery worker for East Lancashire, I have been in post now since May last year. I started my journey in 2010 when I went back to college to do a level 3 in health and social care. I was sll on a methadone prescripon at that me but the course gave me the confidence and movaon to start turning my life around, so early in 2011 I began a reducon off the methadone script I had been on for a number of years. I started doing SMART recovery groups and volunteering for lifeline in Preston and Leyland, whilst doing this I also started a DANOS to become a substance misuse prac oner, I learnt loads from that course about legislaon and strategy and really enjoyed it. When the East Lancashire RRR job came up I went for it and was lucky enough to get it. It’s a really rewarding job and I’m lucky enough to work doing something I’m really passionate about and to work alongside some great people.

social We have worked hard in Lancashire to use an ABCD (asset based community development) approach and build partnerships with other organisaons in the area. Also the 5 ways to well-being is a big part of what we do. So connecng and giving back to the communies we come from, challenging the sgma associated with addicon and breaking down some of the barriers people face in recovery, is a massive part of what RRR are trying to achieve.

Some of the environmental and community projects we have been involved in are: We have recently done some projects in Schools in Hyndburn, such as built some raised flower beds at Broadfields a School for disabled children in Accrington, building raised beds at Rishton Methadist School in partnership with prospect disabled children in Accrington, building raised beds at Rishton Methadist School in partnership with prospect foundaon who are a local organisaon. We also did a project at Harrington Street in Great Harwood this was an area used for fly pping project so we put a fence up built raised beds, planted fruit trees built a shed and a polly tunnel, a few different organisaons ulise this project people, but best of all the people who lived in the houses overlooking the who lived in the houses overlooking the land started ge ng involved with the project so it became a really community focused project. At the moment we’re working at the back of the Hyndburn Resource Centre in Accrington to build a serenity and picnic area is being built, which will be for the community to use.which will be for the community to use. The fantasc guys helping out on a river clean up!

Hi guys!

East Locality WorkerJane Riley



We do a Street clean up on the last Thursday of every month in one of our hard to reach communies in Nelson, ge ng the guys from the CRI DEEP group involved.

Working in partnership with the Ribble River Trust, the river cleanups in Burnley have been a great success and we have now run 3 of these. We have had people coming from all the localies to get involved and the local college gave out volunteering qualificaons. With over 70 people aending on the day this was a high profile event and showed a real recovery presence in the area.

We have also been working with the trust on a River Habitat Management course, we have just completed theWe have also been working with the trust on a River Habitat Management course, we have just completed thecourse and 6 of us got disncons. It was a great way to gain confidence, learn new skills, make new memories and get a qualificaon in River Management and first Aid. The cerficates will be presented at the next East Lancashire LUF on the 3rd September at the AB+D building in Bacup.

Recently a few of the guys did a BTEC qualificaon in building and managing your own radio staon show, we did this with Rock FM and the shows are up-loaded on to BOOM Radio, so watch this space! to BOOM Radio, so watch this space!

Starng on Wednesday the 4th September we will be delivering some training, 4 short Level 1 Award courses in: o Drug awareness o Alcohol awareness, o Stress awareness o Substance misuse awareness.

This will give people a chance to see if they like them and whether they would like to go onto level 2. If you This will give people a chance to see if they like them and whether they would like to go onto level 2. If you would be interested in this course or any of the other projects then please contact me Jane Riley on 07885557699 or email me on [email protected].

Also, don’t forget to check out our new website for more informaon about Red Rose Recovery at www.redroserecovery.org.uk.

Rock FM training

Compleng the Recovery Coaching course

East Locality WorkerJane Riley



WHAT’S ON



TORCHUNDER-THE-STARSWOODBURNERYURT

SONGSSTOVESUNSCREENTENT

NATUREPITCHSLEEPING-BAG

GASHOT-DOGSMARSH-MELLOWS

CARAVANFIREFRESH-AIR

BACKPACKBOTTLECAMPSITE

To celebrate the success of the recent LufStock camping trip we decided it would be a great theme to kick off our first word search. Have fun!

Cartoon Spot

Carry on Camping!

VOLUNTEERINGGIVEKEEP LEARNINGTAKE NOTICEBE ACTIVECONNECT


For a full list of volunteer opportunies visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/volunteer or contact [email protected] or www.facebook.com/ilovevolunteering

Wyre Volunteer Bureau - 01253 774125 or email [email protected] opportunies in Wyre can be viewed on www.do-it.org.uk

Vicm Support Community Volunteers - We are looking for volunteers to provide confidenal emoonal support and praccal help to vicms of crime and other people affected. Details about our opportunity along with applicaon forms can be found here: hp://www.vicmsupport.org.uk/Home/Get-involved/VolunteeringAlternavely, contact us on [email protected] or 01772 201142.

Vicm Support Community Volunteers - We are looking for volunteers to provide confidenal emoonal support and praccal help to vicms of crime and other people affected. Details about our opportunity along with applicaon forms can be found here: hp://www.vicmsupport.org.uk/Home/Get-involved/VolunteeringAlternavely, contact us on [email protected] or 01772 201142.

LESS: Promong sustainable living - For informaon on any projects, volunteering opportunies or general maers of sustainability please contact [email protected] or visit www.lessuk.org or tel: 01524 66100.

Leonard Cheshire - is looking for volunteers to link up with individuals with disabilies and to spend mewith them on a regular basis either in their own home or out in the community. For more informaon, contact: Natalie Searle, Volunteer Co-ordinator [email protected] or Joe Cobb, Sociability Co-ordinator ([email protected]).

Leonard Cheshire - is looking for volunteers to link up with individuals with disabilies and to spend mewith them on a regular basis either in their own home or out in the community. For more informaon, contact: Natalie Searle, Volunteer Co-ordinator [email protected] or Joe Cobb, Sociability Co-ordinator ([email protected]).

Lancaster & District Conservaon Volunteers - For further informaon telephone David & Liz Alexander (Project Organisers) 01524 412938 (evenings 7-9 pm).

Homeless Acon - Edward Street, Lancaster. Tel: 01524 842008.Homeless Acon - Edward Street, Lancaster. Tel: 01524 842008.

Furniture Maers - Thornton Rd, Morecambe. Tel; 01524 427300 Recycles furniture, electrical appliances + bicycles for people on a low income. Need volunteers for driving, deliveries, admin + cleaning.

First responders - First responders are people who live in rural areas trained to give provide immediate and possibly life saving help in a medical emergency unl paramedics can get there and take over. Call 07843585102.

First responders - First responders are people who live in rural areas trained to give provide immediate and possibly life saving help in a medical emergency unl paramedics can get there and take over. Call 07843585102.

Cizens' Advice Bureau - [email protected]

Animal Care - If you'd like to volunteer to help in the sanctuary or the Morecambe charity shop, tel: 01524 65495 (11am-3pm) or email: [email protected]

Below are a few places that are looking for volunteers. If you are interested please contact them directly. If you know of any other voluntary or work opportunies then please let us know and we can print them.

SUPPORTGIVEKEEP LEARNINGTAKE NOTICEBE ACTIVECONNECT


If people know of any other support out there in our community please let us know the details.If people know of any other support out there in our community please let us know the details.

AA – Alcoholics Anonymous 12 Step support groupNA – Narcocs Anonymous 12 step support groupSMART – Recovery Support group Celebrate Recovery – 12 step programme for all hurtsLGBT - We run a coffee aernoon every Friday Everyone iswelcome. Its a safe, friendly, non-judgemental environment. We offer one to one support for lgbt people outside of this groupWe offer one to one support for lgbt people outside of this groupand we offer volunteering opportunies to anyone. For more info call Tracie on 07449311406

At: 58 Regent Road, Morecambe6.30pmNA -

At: St. Marys Church Hall, Mahias St, Morecambe8pmAA -

At: Bapst Church, Nelson St, Lancaster8pm AA -Sunday:

At: St. Chads Church Hall, Torrisholme Rd, Lancaster7pm AA -Saturday:

LGBT Coffee Aernoon - Ground Floor, St Leonardsgate House, St Leonardsgate, Lancaster, LA1 1NN

At: Homeless Centre, Edward St, Lancaster6.30pmSMART

7.30pm At: Friends Meeng House, Meeng House Lane, LancasterNA -

Friday:

At: St Peters Cathedral Social Centre, Lancaster8pm AA - Thursday:

At: Friends Meeng House, Meeng House Lane, Lancaster8pmAA - Wednesday:

Celebrate Recovery - 7.30/8 At: Lancaster Free Methodist Church, Queen Street, Lancaster

7.30pm At: Friends Meeng House, Meeng House Lane, LancasterNA - At: Methodist Church, The Mount, Fleetwood 7.30pm AA - Tuesday:

At: West View Community Centre, 2 Eden Avenue, Fleetwood6:30pmSMARTAt: Friends Meeng House, Meeng House Lane, Lancaster8pm AA - Monday:

We are looking to expand this secon of the magazine, but for now here are the North Lancashire Weekly support meengs:

affinity magazine - august 2013 issue 006

Documents