A special awards ceremony has taken place celebrating individuals and groups who have overcome drug and alcohol addiction as part of Recovery Pride.
Haringey Council has taken a major role in commissioning services to help our residents transform their lives and was proud to celebrate their achievements.
The event also offered specialist therapeutic services, food and drink, music, games, and wider wrap-around support.
Cllr Lucia das Neves, Cabinet Member for Health, Social Care and Wellbeing, said
“Recovery Pride is our way of us recognising the brave efforts of our residents who are working hard to overcome addiction.
“We’re proud of everyone who has come through any of our services to find help, support, and treatment. Our amazing team of support staff, often with lived experience themselves, are welcoming and friendly experts. If you, or someone you know, could benefit from help, it’s never too late to reach out.”
One service user in Haringey said “Growing up, drugs and alcohol were a constant part of my environment, deeply embedded in my society. From the very first lesson, I felt a glimmer of hope. This experience has allowed me to regain control over my life.
“I am now more responsible and present for my children. Since I stopped drinking, I can genuinely say that these have been, are, and will be the best times of my life. Now, I am 100% focused on staying abstinent.”
Throughout 2023, Haringey Council engaged with over 1,800 adults and young people in our various drug and alcohol support services.
In that time, the council has set up three additional satellite clinics in the borough and established screening areas within community hubs and GP surgeries, to expand our offer to residents.
We have also set up liver scanning services and wellbeing events in the community, and these have taken place in our local parks. It is now also easier than ever to access naloxone and overdose prevention kits in pharmacies in the borough.
To create an easier referral process for residents and professionals, the council has created an online referral portal with information on alcohol and drug treatment services, harm reduction, mutual aid groups – making it quicker to get an appointment in our services. This e-referral form can be found here.
For more information, support, and guidance, visit our website.